Using bacteriophages to enhance science education and research opportunities
Official title: Phages Helping Acquire Genuine Experiences in Science (PHAGES)
Funded at Montana Technological University · NIH-10673206 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping teachers give students in underserved areas the chance to do real science research on bacteriophages, so that more kids from different backgrounds can explore and enjoy science together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Montana Technological University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Butte, United States) |
| Project start | August 21, 2019 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $232,101 |
| NIH project number | 5R25GM132951-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10673206 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include K-12 students and teachers, particularly from diverse and underserved backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in K-12 education or do not have an interest in science may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project focuses on improving science education by equipping teachers with the skills to provide high-quality bacteriophage research opportunities for students. It aims to create sustainable satellite labs in underserved areas, ensuring that diverse K-12 students have access to genuine research experiences. The program will involve peer mentoring from experienced teachers to expand outreach and participation in bacteriophage discovery. By integrating K-12 outreach, the project seeks to broaden the diversity of students engaging in scientific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance science education and increase student engagement in scientific research, particularly in underserved communities.
How similar studies have gone: Similar educational outreach programs have shown success in enhancing student engagement and diversity in science, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Montana Technological University
Butte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pedulla, Marisa L — Montana Technological University
- Study coordinator: Pedulla, Marisa L
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Training programs in occupational safety and industrial hygiene
Montana Technological University is starting two new programs to help students learn about keeping people safe and healthy at work, offering a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health and a Master’s degree in Industrial Hygiene, both taught by knowledgeable teachers who are experts in the field.
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.