STEM Pathfinder Program Guides

The summer 2026 STEM Pathfinders program has concluded. Please check back in December 2026 for details regarding our summer 2027 program.

STEM Pathfinder programs are two-week immersive experiences for high school students designed to explore diverse fields within biosciences or engineering at 鶹ý. Each participating department hosts students for two days, where they'll get an opportunity to dive in to hands-on activities, join lab tours, and engage in conversations with faculty and students.

Department Guides (faculty/graduate students/research staff) spearhead development and facilitation of their department's experience with support from Science Discovery staff. Department Guides are responsible for organizing approximately 8 hours (10am-2:30pm, including a 45 minute lunch) of activities and events for 24 students across the two days. Activities should highlight the unique and interesting aspects of your field, including academics, research, and career pathways. A “core instructor” and TA will also accompany participants and assist with activities throughout the program's duration. The following are examples of departments that could be a good fit for Bioscience or Engineering Pathfinder programming: 

  • Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
  • Environmental Studies
  • Integrative Physiology
  • Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
  • Aerospace
  • Biological/Chemical Engineering
  • Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering
  • Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • ATLAS
2026 Program Dates:
  • Bioscience Pathfinders: June 1-12, 2026
  • Engineering Pathfinders: July 13-24, 2026
Benefits to Working as a Department Guide:
  • Spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers
  • Develop science communication and STEM outreach skills
  • Encourage undergraduate enrollment in your field
  • Department Guide Stipend: $800
  • Materials Budget: $500