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Research Experience for Teachers (RET)

Coastal Ecosystem-Research Experience for Teachers (CE-BIORETS)

This collaborative project between FIU’s STEM Transformation Institute and Institute of Environment has been designed to support the development of the next generation of researchers by engaging K-12 teachers in coastal ecosystems research. Through the CE-BIORETS program, we will: 1) increase the participation of underrepresented groups by engaging teachers as researchers in the biological sciences; 2) increase the use of scientific research and inquiry in classrooms 3) create a scientific community of practice to support teachers throughout the research process; 4) improve research self-efficacy in teachers; and 5) improve our understanding of the global impact of humans on coastal ecosystems. 

Our CE-BIORETS participants will be paired with one of our scientists studying the coastal ecosystems of South Florida. The scientists will serve as a research mentor and together with teacher they will identify a research question, design/implement a research project, and present the results at a research symposium. 

This year we anticipate the ability to support 8 teachers with:

  • $10,000 stipend support
  • Professional Development including:
    • Developing/implementing research project; improving science communication; data analysis/visualization; translating research into classrooms; scientific presentations; and using primary literature in the classroom
  • Field Trainings/Excursions including:
    • Deering Estate Historical Hike; Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge canoe trip; Biscayne Bay boat trawl; Botanical and Historical Tour of the Kampong; Florida Keys Snorkeling Tour; Everglades Airboat Tour; and Fruit & Spice Botanical/Agroecology Tour
  • Materials and Supplies
    • Provided for developing instructional materials related to their research project
    • Instructional materials will: 1) be standards-aligned; 2) used to engage students in research; and 3) advance the understanding of coastal ecosystems. 

If you are interested in being considered for one of our CE-BIORETS Fellowships, please complete the application at https://etap.nsf.gov/ .


Nicolas Quintairos describes his experience in the Coastal Ecosystems Research Experience for Teachers (CE-BIORETS) program at FIU.

Cathy Laroche (FCE LTER RET, Felix Varela High School) and Dr. John Kominoski measure the heights of mangrove trees.
Cathy Laroche (FCE LTER RET, Felix Varela High School) and Dr. John Kominoski measure the heights of mangrove trees.

2017 K-STEP teacher training group at West Lake, Everglades National Park
2017 K-STEP teacher training group at West Lake, Everglades National Park