Research Experiences for Teachers in Machine Learning and Smart System Design

Activities will include a 6-week summer program at Texas A&M University and continuing collaboration throughout the following academic year. During the summer, participants will:

• engage in a research project with a faculty mentors
• attend special topic presentations and site tours
• develop an instructional module to teach a topic related to their research

During the following academic year, participants will:

• implement their instructional modules in the classroom and assess learning outcomes
• attend a 1-day workshop to present results, share materials, and evaluate the program

Stipend

Each participant will receive a stipend of $1000/week for participation in the six-week summer program and $1500 upon completion of the implementation and evaluation activities during the following academic year. Lodging, meal and travel expenses are not included.  The program can assist participants in finding dormitory-style housing arrangements if requested on the application.

Participants who present their work at an appropriate research or educational conference after completing the program will receive up to $1000 for travel expenses.

Eligibility

To be eligible for participation in the RET program, faculty should be currently teaching in the following areas: robotics and automation, engineering design and presentation, mechatronics, biotechnology, programming, manufacturing, engineering mathematics, principles of technology, scientific research and design, electronics. Institutions are encouraged to send at least two faculty members to the program.

Participants will be selected based on criteria such as interest in research and in developing machine learning-related instructional modules for classroom use, and recommendations by their principals and/or department heads.

Application Forms and Process

Application materials (includes application, essay prompts, and recommendation form)

To be considered for this program, please email your completed application package to the program director,  Dr. Sheng-Jen ("Tony") Hsieh by Friday, March 13,  2026. The subject line should be: RET 2026 Application - your name

Applicants will be notified in late March. If you have questions, please contact Dr. Hsieh.