Become a Mentor with the Science Research Academy

At the Science Research Academy (SRA), mentors play a vital role in shaping the next generation of scientists and innovators. By guiding a motivated high school student through an independent research project, mentors not only help nurture curiosity and scientific literacy, they also gain the rewarding experience of teaching, collaborating, and inspiring future leaders in STEM.

Benefits for Mentors

  • Meaningful Impact: Directly contribute to a young scholar’s academic growth and confidence.

  • Professional Development: Strengthen your ability to communicate complex ideas and mentor emerging researchers.

  • Networking & Recognition: Join a community of scientists, educators, and professionals committed to expanding access to authentic research experiences.

  • Flexible Engagement: Work with students remotely or in-person based on your availability and field.

Expectations & Requirements

  • Provide guidance, feedback, and expertise as students design and carry out their research.

  • Meet with your mentee weekly (typically 30–45 minutes) to review progress and troubleshoot challenges.

  • Offer feedback on data analysis, paper drafts, and presentations near project completion.

  • Maintain open communication with SRA staff to ensure student progress and academic integrity.

  • Hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant STEM discipline (graduate students, postdocs, and professionals welcome).

Time Commitment

  • 2–4 hours per month over a 4 month project cycle, with scheduling flexibility to accommodate your professional workload.

  • All mentoring sessions can be conducted virtually via Zoom or similar platforms, unless both parties agree to meet in person.

Notable places where our esteemed mentors work:

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • Mount Saint Mary College

  • Washington University School of Medicine

  • Pfizer Research & Development

  • AdvantageCare Physicians

  • Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine

Mentor Timeline

Responsibilities by Phase

    • Guide student in narrowing topic and designing feasible experiment

    • Suggest literature and ensure ethical compliance

    • Review and approve proposal and ISEF forms

    • Hold weekly check-ins

    • Provide troubleshooting and methodological guidance

    • Ensure accurate and ethical data recording

    • Advise on data analysis tools and interpretation

    • Review drafts of paper and provide detailed feedback

    • Confirm clarity and scientific accuracy of results and discussion

    • Review and edit poster layout and content

    • Conduct mock presentations

    • Provide final reflections and recommendations for future work

Let’s Work Together

Are you a STEM professional interested in becoming a paid mentor with Science Research Academy?

Fill out the form below and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you!