Preparing teachers for future pandemics through hands-on science education
Official title: Tomorrow's Science Today: Preparing for the Next Pandemic
Funded at 3d Molecular Designs · NIH-10888284 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping high school science teachers learn more about infectious diseases and new technologies, so they can teach their students better using fun, hands-on tools like 3D-printed protein models.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | 3d Molecular Designs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | August 11, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $270,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R25GM146236-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888284 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation would be high school science teachers looking to enhance their curriculum on infectious diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Students or individuals not involved in high school science education may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This project focuses on enhancing the knowledge and teaching skills of high school science teachers regarding infectious diseases and molecular technologies. It involves creating hands-on instructional materials, including 3D-printed models of proteins, to help teachers convey complex scientific concepts effectively. The initiative aims to empower teachers through a professional development program that emphasizes active learning and student engagement. By equipping educators with better resources and knowledge, the project seeks to improve science education related to pandemics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more informed and prepared generation of students who understand infectious diseases and the science behind pandemic responses.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using 3D printing in education is gaining traction, this specific focus on preparing for pandemics through teacher training is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
3d Molecular Designs
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herman, Tim M. — 3d Molecular Designs
- Study coordinator: Herman, Tim M.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Automated feedback for student-made protein models using phones and AI
A smartphone app uses AI to give students and teachers immediate feedback on their student-made protein models created with flexible foam tools.
-
Using machine learning to improve protein modeling education
This study is all about making learning about proteins more fun and effective for students by using cool digital tools that give instant feedback on their protein models, helping them see and fix mistakes right away.
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.