Programs

Maine Research Internships for Teachers and Students (MERITS)

MSGC announces the Summer 2012 Program is now open for High School Students!!

Maine Research Internships for Teachers and Students (MERITS) is a program that strengthens research opportunities for Maine's teachers and students interested in science and technology by placing them in laboratory or field settings. Designed around the premise that research is among the best teaching tools, MERITS includes programs for K-12 teachers and preservice teachers, high school students, and college students. The MERITS Program not only forges new collaborations among industry, research, and education in the state, but also serves to strengthen an educational foundation that helps to produce a highly-skilled workforce to meet the needs of Maine businesses and research communities.

High School Program
The program is open to Maine high school Juniors. Eligible students should be considering a possible career in science, technology, mathematics or engineering. Application evaluation will be based upon: interest in pursuing a career in science/technology/math/engineering, teacher recommendation and academic record.

Teacher Program
Any classroom teacher in grades 6-12 currently employed full-time in the state of Maine and is a U.S. Citizen is eligible to apply. Application evaluation will be based upon demonstrated evidence of incorporating new ideas into the curriculum. Applicants are required to submit an application detailing the expected benefits of the program and a letter of recommendation from their principal.

STUDENT PROGRAM:

2012 MERITS Program Guidelines (pdf)

2012 MERITS Student Application Package (Microsoft Word)

2012 Teacher recommendation form (Microsoft Word)

MERITS FAQ for Students, Teachers and Host Institutions (pdf)

MERITS Host Mentor and Institution Guidelines (pdf)

2012 Host Institution Information Form (Microsoft Word)

Important Dates:

Student Applications Due: December 9, 2011

Internship Dates: tbd - (expected June 25, 2012 to August 10, 2012)

TEACHER PROGRAM: (NOT OPEN AT THIS TIME)

2011 MERITS Program Guidelines (pdf)

2011 MERITS Teacher Application Package (Microsoft Word)

2011 MERITS Host Mentor and Institution Guidelines (pdf)

Hands-on Experiences

Since its inception in 1992, MERITS has provided summer and school year opportunities to hundreds of teachers and students at more than 70 businesses and non-profit laboratories across Maine. Participants have worked in a wide variety of research areas including: information technology; semiconductor engineering; electrical engineering; environmental studies; molecular genetics; medical research; estuary and ocean science; marine biology; precision manufacturing; geology and soil science; and analytical chemistry.

MERITS interns have enjoyed work opportunities at a wide variety of host organizations. The following is a list of businesses, government offices, and organizations that have participated in the MERITS program in the past. Links to websites are provided where known.