The Gains in the Education of Mathematics and Science (GEMS) program at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) offers middle and high school students an exciting platform to engage in hands-on STEM activities that are designed to stimulate inquiry-based thinking, scientific skills, and interest in STEM careers. Rising 7th – 12th graders will have the opportunity to explore STEM in a sophisticated laboratory setting and learn about STEM careers under the guidance of college-level mentors called Near-Peer Mentors (NPMs).
About WRAIR
Headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is the oldest and most mission diverse biomedical research laboratory in the Department of Defense. WRAIR’s mission: Discover, design, develop and deliver globally impactful solutions for military relevant infectious diseases, brain health and performance optimization through innovative research. Some of the sophisticated research conducted at WRAIR is adapted and incorporated in the coursework for GEMS students.
Important Timelines
December 5, 2023: Near-Peer Mentor/Assistant Near-Peer Mentor/Teacher Applications open
January 29, 2024: Student Application opens
There will be 9 sessions of GEMS between June 10 – August 16, 2024
Session Dates TBA
General Information
GEMS will be offered on 3 platforms:
- In-person
- Hybrid
- Asynchronous
GEMS is FREE to all applicants.
Student participants who attend GEMS in-person are eligible to receive $125 stipend to offset cost of transportation and food.
Student participants in hybrid and asynchronous GEMS are not eligible to receive a stipend.
In-person GEMS will be offered at*:
- WRAIR, Silver Spring (Biomedical and Engineering)
- Bowie State University (BSU) (Biomedical and Engineering)
- Morgan State University, Baltimore (Biomedical)
- *One more location may be added
Levels:
GEMS levels (Fall 2024 grade levels)
Beginning (7th and 8th grades)
Intermediate (9th and 10th grades)
Advanced (11th and 12th grades)
Information for Near-Peer Mentors, Assistant Near-Peer Mentors and Teachers
The GEMS Near-Peer Mentor is typically a college undergraduate. Closer in age to our students, NPMs share their STEM interests with the students, guide students in a hands-on exploration of STEM concepts, and develop meaningful connections throughout the week. In addition to a strong understanding of the STEM content, NPMs offer guidance in choosing high school courses, applying to college and scholarships, and adjusting to college-level academics. NPMs receive stipends based on their educational level.
The Assistant Near-Peer Mentor is usually a high school senior or junior with interest in STEM fields and an ability to work as a team. ANPMs perform a variety of tasks such as maintaining the supply inventory, prepping the lab and assisting the NPM teach a class. Stipends are based on educational level.
GEMS Teacher supervises NPMs/ANPMs. GEMS Teacher may be a high school teacher or an academician/educator with a strong base in STEM fields. The GEMS Teacher must be creative with the ability to multi-task and have strong leadership skills. Stipends are based on educational level and experience.
Information for Audio-Visual Intern Applicants
Typically a college undergraduate or HS senior, the Audio/Visual intern will serve as subject-matter expert and content developer (recording/editing/etc.) for STEM programming across all formats of GEMS. Stipends are based on educational level.
Important Dates
December 5, 2023
Near-Peer Mentor, Assistant Near-Peer Mentor, Teacher Applications Open
January 29, 2024
Student Application Opens
June 15, 2024
Near-Peer Mentor, Assistant Near-Peer Mentor, Teacher Applications Closes
May 15, 2024
Student Application Closes
Interested in This Program?
If you are interested in this program email us or call 301-319-7129. We'd love to hear from you!