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HEART - Harnessing Educators for Advancing Refrigerant Technologies

Advancing Sustainable HVACR Solutions

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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 four-week immersive experience connects 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.

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 2025:

  • 2 teachers from Maryland (University of Maryland area)
  • 2 teachers from Kansas (KU/KC 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 16 - July 15, 2025
  • University of Kansas: June 16 - July 15, 2025
  • University of Notre Dame: June 16 - July 15, 2025

Support & Funding

Each participant will receive $10,000 in total support, covering:
💰$7,500 Stipend – Compensation for participation in the research experience.
✈$500 Travel – Reimbursement for transportation expenses.
🏠$1,500 Subsistence – On-campus housing and meal support.
🛠$500 Materials & Supplies – Funding for research materials and classroom integration.

How to Apply

Application Deadline: March 31, 2025

📅 Submit your application by March 31, 2025, to be considered for this unique opportunity!

Application Requirements

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

Application Form

Apply Now

 

Questions? Contact: Casey Williams - casey.williams@ku.edu

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!