Paid Opportunity for STEM Grads/Postdocs
retired researchers/ professors:
Assist High Schoolers
with their
Academic Research
Are you a graduate, postgraduate student, retired researcher or professor
with academic research experience in math or science?
Want to make a difference while earning a little extra income?
Join our directory of subject matter experts
and help high school students explore their passions in STEM research!
Join our directory of subject matter experts:
Submit your information here to be added to the directory.
Program Overview
This unique program pairs high school students conducting independent research with experienced STEM graduates and postdocs like you. Your expertise will be invaluable as you assist students in their projects, providing clarification, feedback, and mathematical knowledge.
How It Works
Join the Directory: Submit your information and areas of expertise.
Get Matched: We'll connect you with a student whose research interest aligns with your background.
Collaborate Online: You'll meet with the student and Anne (the research mentor) online to discuss their project, offer guidance, and help the student develop their technical knowledge and research skills.
Time Commitment
This collaboration is project-based, and the time commitment varies depending on the student's pace and needs. Generally, subject matter experts can expect to dedicate approximately 8-12 hours per student, encompassing 4-6 hours of virtual meetings and 4-6 hours of preparation, proofreading, and providing feedback. We'll work with you to schedule meetings at times that are convenient for both you and the student.
Benefits for the Subject Experts
- Paid Opportunity - Receive competitive compensation for your time and expertise.
- Flexible Schedule - Collaborate with students on a schedule that works for both of you.
- Mentoring Experience - Build your resume and gain valuable experience guiding young researchers.
- Make a Difference - Help shape the next generation of STEM leaders.
- Certificate of Recognition - Receive a certificate acknowledging your contribution to STEM education.
Qualifications
- Graduate or postgraduate student, retired researcher or professor in a relevant STEM field with academic research and writing experience.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to explain complex concepts clearly and patiently.
- Patience in helping students succeed.
Expectations
- Meet with student and Anne online for a total of 4-6 hours of virtual meetings as well as 4-6 hours of preparation, proofreading, and providing feedback.
- Provide constructive feedback and guidance on research methods, technical aspects, and writing.
- Log in on time for scheduled meetings.
- Be supportive and encouraging of students' ideas and explorations.
Some Areas of Student Research Interests
Students' projects span a wide range of exciting topics, including:
- Pure and Applied Mathematics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Astrophysics, Nuclear Physics, Applied Physics
- Graph Theory Applications
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Control Theory
- Computational Biology
- Applied Mathematics in Medicine
- Floating-Point Arithmetic
- Relativity, Infinity and other captivating concepts
...and more, each student’s interests are unique!
About the Research Program for High School Students
This program is designed to foster a love of STEM in high school students by providing them with the opportunity to explore their own research questions. Students work independently under the guidance of Anne, an experienced mentor, and receive additional support from subject matter experts like you. The program aims to develop students' critical thinking, research, and communication skills while giving them a taste of what STEM research is like at the college level.
About Anne
As a 2021 Presidential Award finalist and dedicated educator, Anne integrates the themes of PLAY, THINK, CREATE, & LEAD throughout all aspects of her work. She has directed mathematical learning for 2200+ students across three high-performing states (MA, NY, & NJ), developing solid mathematical understanding and problem-solving capabilities.
Anne's expertise encompasses mathematics, program design, and curriculum development. Inspired by her own experience conducting mathematics research through PROMYS for Teachers at Boston University, she began developing a curriculum in 2016 to enable high school students to experience math the way mathematicians do.
This culminated in the launch of her full-year Mathematics/STEM Research & Writing Elective Program for high schoolers in 2019, which she announced at the Park City Mathematics Institute.
In 2021, Anne expanded the program to include a second-year curriculum and partnered with Girls' Angle founder Ken Fan to mentor five students eager to continue their research. In 2023, she opened the program up to her first international student.
Now, in 2024, Anne is focused on expanding access to this unique research opportunity, connecting a wider range of students, educators, and schools with mathematics and science experts.
Beyond student mentorship, Anne also enjoys developing professional learning workshops for teachers. Her recent workshop, "Awakening Mathematical Thinking Through Play," was met with enthusiasm and requests for future offerings from both the Association of Mathematics Teachers of New Jersey (AMTNJ) and Math for America (MfA), highlighting the demand for innovative approaches to math education.
Anne holds an undergraduate degree in Applied Economics & Business Management from Cornell University and a Master's in Mathematics for Teaching from Boston University.
Questions? Email Anne to set up an informational meeting.
anne@cultivatingexcellence.org