Nevada middle and high school teachers can apply to the ÍƼöÐÓ°ÉÔ´´'s Cybersecurity Center for a new National Science Foundation summer project that will enhance and bring cybersecurity, computing, problem solving and STEM-related programs into their classrooms.
This first-ever-in-Nevada NSF "Research Experience for Teachers" initiative will partner with teachers to bring research experience into their classrooms and help with teaching modules related to cybersecurity and STEM.
The primary objective of this undertaking by the Cybersecurity Center based in the College of Engineering is to explore unique ways to engage teachers in a six-week research experience that emphasizes cybersecurity by participating in research and developing classroom modules and materials which will be implemented in their classrooms during the academic year.
The project is funded with $540,000 from the National Science Foundation. Participants will receive a $10,000 stipend, including $8,000 of direct payment and $2,000 for follow-up and lab equipment.
"We anticipate many teachers will apply," Shamik Sengupta, assistant professor in the College of Engineering and lead researcher of the project, said. "We need 10 people, and of course will be looking for the most qualified."
The teachers will have the opportunity of working in any of four broadly defined project/research areas: robotics/unmanned autonomous systems, biometrics and hardware systems, wireless communication systems and digital forensics.
"We're excited to get this program going, it has a lot of potential to enthuse teachers and their students, eventually building and enhancing the Nevada workforce in the cybersecurity industry," Sengupta said.
The three-year NSF program, Cyber Security Initiative for Nevada Teachers, aims to establish collaboration and engagement with all schools in Nevada and sustain long-term partnerships between the teacher participants, the University mentor team and industry partners as well as encourage students to pursue STEM-related careers.
Applications will be accepted through Jan. 15, and notification of acceptance will be made in February. The summer session runs from June 20 to July 29.
For more information and to apply for the program visit the Cybersecurity Center's website at .
