Recruiting the next generation of chemists through hands-​on research experiences

Abstract

Mentoring future scientists and doing groundbreaking lab. research are not mutually exclusive. They actually strengthen each other. Our NSF Solar Fuels Center for Chem. Innovation has implemented a robust outreach program consisting of 3 components. In the Solar Energy Activities Lab (SEAL), high school and college students in our Solar Army search for robust metal-oxide materials with tools and coaching by CCI scientists. CCI investigators follow up with more advanced theor. and exptl. work on these and related materials, while gaining fresh insights and perspectives from training and guiding the students. In Juice-from-Juice, CCI scientists are training teachers to make dye-sensitized solar cells using natural pigments from fruits and vegetables. This maps well into the high school STEM curriculum by teaching fundamental concepts in chem., physics, and biol. The third program targets middle school kids from disadvantaged backgrounds who have not had much exposure to chem. By having a meaningful scientific experience before entering high school, these kids are more likely to pursue STEM careers than otherwise. We have been working with Informal Science Educational professionals, high school "near peer" mentors, evaluators, and local museums to provide a groundbreaking model of chem. informal science education outside the classroom. These types of symbiotic relationships are important steps toward the goal of a scientifically literate citizenry.