This program aims to empower science faculty members to apply the creativity and experimental rigor that make them accomplished research scientists to address compelling challenges in science education. This is a small program, highly focused on ~100 universities with the hope that the professors can significantly affect the culture at research universities in the United States and create a community of advocates who can influence others in their discipline to advance science education nationally.
I’ve included an overview of the program and our rationale for its focus below, and have attached both the solicitation and guidelines for applicants.
Eligibility:
· Affiliated with an institution classified as a Doctoral University, Highest Research Activity (R1) according to the 2015 Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education
· Tenured faculty member of a baccalaureate degree-granting natural sciences department (biological/ life sciences, chemistry/biochemistry, physics, earth/ geosciences, astronomy)
· Full-time faculty appointment in current home department for at least three consecutive years
· Assigned role in the development or implementation of undergraduate curriculum in home department as part of faculty appointment
· Principal investigator on one or more active, national peer-reviewed research award of at least three years duration
· All criteria must be met by September 1, 2017
We are often asked if science education scholars are eligible in this program, and while we recognize the importance of the scholarship of science education, the HHMI Professors Program is focused on laboratory/field research scientists as a mechanism to impact the culture among scientists at research-intensive universities and develop models for how scientists can engage in undergraduate education. More information about the HHMI Professors Program and the competition announcement is posted on the HHMI website: http://www.hhmi.org/programs/hhmi-professors
In the current competition, interested faculty may submit their application directly, with no restriction on the number of applicants from a given university. We anticipate appointing up to 15 new professors, each receiving a five-year, non-renewable grant totaling $1 million to develop and implement science education activities at their home institution. In addition to individual awards, we have added the opportunity for two eligible faculty members at the same university to apply for a collaborative grant totaling $1.5 million over five years.
The deadline for submitting an Intent to Apply is July 1, 2016, and the deadline for submitting applications is October 6, 2016.
Please contact us with your questions or comments at profcomp@hhmi.org.