Engaging fifth graders in STEM and biomedical careers through community involvement
Official title: Authentic Community Engagement in Science (ACES)
Funded at Montana State University -Billings · NIH-11118965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The ACE Project is all about helping fifth graders in rural and tribal areas of Eastern Montana get excited about science and health careers by creating fun, hands-on lessons and a lively stage show that includes music and acting.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Montana State University -Billings NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Billings, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $241,111 |
| NIH project number | 5R25GM137374-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11118965 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are fifth-grade students, particularly those from rural and tribal communities in Eastern Montana.
✕Less likely to help
Students outside of the fifth-grade level or those not residing in the targeted rural and tribal communities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
The ACE Project aims to enhance access to quality biochemical and STEM education for fifth-grade students in rural and tribal communities in Eastern Montana. By collaborating with local teachers and biomedical professionals, the project develops a culturally relevant curriculum that fosters interest in STEM careers. The curriculum employs a problem-based learning approach and is complemented by a traveling multimedia stage show that includes actors, music, and dance to engage students. This initiative seeks to inspire students and provide them with role models in the biomedical field.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the interest and aspirations of young students in pursuing careers in STEM and biomedical fields.
How similar studies have gone: Previous initiatives that engaged students through community involvement and interactive learning have shown positive outcomes in increasing interest in STEM fields.
Where this research is happening
-
Montana State University -Billings
Billings, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Queen, Matthew — Montana State University -Billings
- Study coordinator: Queen, Matthew
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.