nano@stanford is currently in the process of merging.

Some areas of the site may be incomplete or undergoing updates. We appreciate your patience and understanding. 
The Stanford Nanofabrication Facility (SNF/Fab@Allen) and the Stanford Nano Shared Facilities (SNSF) websites are available as needed during this transition.

Teacher Professional Development

Nanoscience Summer Institute for Middle School Teachers (NanoSIMST)

Video by Harry Gregory, Stanford Report

Summer 2026

This summer, nano@stanford will be offering one virtual paid professional development workshop in nanoscience from June 15-19, 2026! Selected teachers in this unique learning experience will be introduced to content-relevant cutting edge technology and nanoscience concepts that will engage students with real world problems. We will provide hands-on materials, instructional support, guest speakers, high demand career options for students, and exposure to a wealth of online resources. Become a part of the nanoscience educator community today -- applications close April 11, 2026!

Apply Now

Photos from Summer 2025

View Here

Why Join?

  • Learn about the cutting edge research at Stanford and the NNCI network
  • Become a member of a nanoeducator network - first access to field trips, curated content, and lesson support
  • Develop customized, NGSS-aligned activities and lesson plans for your classroom from your own hands-on experiences
  • Increase student awareness of  high pay & in demand technology careers at all levels
  • Receive stipend upon completion of workshop ($500) and classroom implementation ($300)

Teacher Feedback

  • "I LOVED this summer institute! Resources are phenomenal! You have real life applications that are NOT outdated and very relevant to teachers AND our students."
  • "Fantastic pacing to cover info, keep engagement, and not overload. One of the most efficient PDs I have attended without being overwhelming."

In the News

The Stanford Report article, "Summer institute brings nanoscience to teachers," by Eli Ramos, highlights how NanoSIMST enhances educational practices for teachers and their students through their innovative training programs.

Teachers suit up for a visit to a clean room facility. Photo by Andrew Brodhead

nano@stanford collaborated with CSET to support 16 NanoSIMST teachers; integrating nanoscience content and practical pedagogy to develop NGSS-aligned lesson plans.

Why Middle School Teachers?

  • Middle school is where the challenge of creating pathways into scientific and engineering fields begins
  • Performance relative to international norms drops between 4th to 8th grade from above average to average.
  • Reported enthusiasm for science drops substantially: 64% of 4th graders interested in science, dropping to 50% in the 8th grade (from the National Center for Education Statistics)
  • Broad Impact: One teacher may reach > 100 students per year
  • Deep Impact: Teachers profoundly influence their students' interests
  • Retention: Teachers are the frontline in the effort to maintain high education standards. We hope to help make your job more enjoyable and rewarding.