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HEART - Harnessing Educators for Advancing Refrigerant Technologies

Advancing Sustainable HVACR Solutions

About the Program

The EARTH Research Experience for Teachers (RET) program empowers K-14 educators to engage in cutting-edge research on sustainable HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) technologies. This immersive experience spans roughly 5 weeks, connecting teachers with scientists, engineers, and industry leaders to develop research-based curricula that inspire students to tackle real-world sustainability challenges.

Why Participate?

Conduct hands-on research in next-generation refrigerants and energy-efficient HVACR systems.

Develop classroom-ready STEM lessons aligned with sustainability and engineering solutions.

Collaborate with industry leaders like Carrier, Trane, and Chemours.

Prepare students for high-demand STEM careers in a growing field.

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HVACR systems are critical to global infrastructure, yet traditional refrigerants contribute significantly to climate change.

EARTH’s RET program is pioneering sustainable refrigerant lifecycle solutions to:
 

  • Reduce refrigerant emissions.
  • Develop environmentally friendly alternatives.
  • Improve HVACR energy efficiency.

 

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Program Details

Who Can Apply?

We are recruiting six educators for Summer 2026:

  • 2 teachers from Maryland (University of Maryland area)
  • 2 teachers from South Dakota (University of South Dakota area)
  • 2 teachers from Indiana (Notre Dame area)

Ideal applicants:

  • High school & community college educators in physics, Earth sciences, environmental science, chemistry, welding, HVACR, trade teaching
  • Educators eager to integrate climate change education into their classrooms.
  • Teachers looking to enhance professional development and career knowledge.

Program Dates & Locations

  • University of Maryland: June 22 - July 24, 2026
  • University of South Dakota: June 22 - July 24, 2026
  • University of Notre Dame: June 22 - July 24, 2026

Support & Funding

Each participant could receive up to $8,200 in total support, covering:
💰Total $6,000 Stipend – Compensation for participation in the research experience.
✈ Up to $500 Travel – Reimbursement for transportation expenses.
🏠Up to $1,000 Subsistence – On-campus housing and meal support.
🛠 Up to $700 Materials & Supplies – Funding for research materials and classroom integration.

How to Apply

Application Deadline: April 3, 2026

 

Application Requirements

- Philosophy of Teaching Statement (1-page)
-Letter of Support from Your Principal

Questions? Contact Jennifer Sprague: j.sprague@ku.edu

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What You'll Gain

  • Real-world research experience to bring back to your students.
  • Industry connections with leading companies.
  • Hands-on learning tools and lesson plans.
  • Opportunities to develop new research ideas with university faculty.

Join EARTH’s mission to revolutionize HVACR sustainability, reduce emissions, and prepare the next generation of innovators!