This summer, eight educators participated in the Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) Program; a six-week research experience that connects K-12 teachers with faculty-led STEM research while exploring solutions to real-world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
The 2026 cohort included six in-service high school teachers, one of which is a recent WPI graduate and Teacher Preparation Program alumnus, Jesse Drozd, and two pre-service teachers.
Working closely with WPI faculty mentors, participants spent the summer exploring solutions to challenges in energy, health, the environment, and technology through research projects connected to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Faculty mentors included Adam Powell (Mechanical & Materials Engineering and Chemical Engineering), Scarlet Shell (Biology & Biotechnology), Andrew Teixeira and Geoffrey Tompsett (Chemical Engineering), and Doug Petkie (Physics).
2026 RET Research Projects
- Magnesium Production and Recycling for Clean Energy
Anna Barrasso (Joseph P. Keefe Technical High School) worked with Adele Aldridge (WPI Mechanical Engineering) under the mentorship of Adam Powell.
- Antibiotic Resistance in Mycobacteria
Amanda Lorusso (Fontbonne Academy) worked with Stefany Rodriguez (Discovery Polytech High School) under the mentorship of Scarlet Shell.
- Removing PFAS from Contaminated Soils
Jesse Drozd (WPI) worked with Juan Madrid (Hudson High School) under the mentorship of Andrew Teixeira and Geoffrey Tompsett.
- Sensor Technologies for a Healthier World
Elijah Chaimovitch (WPI Physics) worked with Chris Golembiewski (Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School) under the mentorship of Doug Petkie.
In addition to conducting research, participants engaged in weekly professional development sessions led by the STEM Education Center at WPI. Teachers explored strategies for translating their laboratory experiences into classroom lessons that help students investigate real-world problems, apply engineering and scientific practices, and better understand STEM career pathways.
The program culminated on August 7 with the RET Poster Symposium, where RET participants shared their research experience. The event also featured an Industry Panel with professionals from across Central Massachusetts who discussed STEM careers, workforce skills, and the evolving role of technology and artificial intelligence in the workplace.
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