The BIORETS application for the 2026-27SY is now closed. We will be recruiting teachers beginning in December, 2026, for 2027-28SY. If you would like to join our email list to be notified of applications opening, email jmbruhn at arizona.edu.
We have 3 years of funding from the National Science Foundation for our BIORETS Santa Cruz River teacher research and training program. BIORETS stands for Research Experiences for Teachers in the Biological Sciences Sites.
This Tucson-based year-long program partners teachers with University of Arizona researchers, extensive community partners, and provides a full year of support for classroom implementation. Teachers take part in field research focused on the Santa Cruz River while participating in a concurrent class focused on data inquiry skills, nature journaling, and place-based science. Teachers are paid for their participation in the program. Hear from alumni teachers on our YouTube channel @SantaCruzRiverAZ, check out lessons and activities teachers created, and learn more on our BIORETS page.
2026 - 27SY Program Details:
Eligibility: STEM teachers for grades 6-12 at any Tucson metro area school, including the Tohono O'odham and Pascua Yaqui Nations
Program Dates: 6 weeks from June 9 to July 14 plus 80 hours during the 2026-27 School year
Summer compensation: 6 weeks full-time: $6,240
School year compensation: 40 hours per semester, 80 hours total = $2,080 for monthly group meetings, quarterly field trips, class visits, curriculum implementation and documentation
Teacher supply funds: $1,200 to purchase supplies to implement BIORETS curriculum. Additional funds available for presenting at conferences, paying for field trip transportation, and other uses.
Application deadline: Monday, February 16, 2026
Questions? Reach out to Program Administrator, Jacqueline Bruhn (jmbruhn at arizona.edu).
