GEMS
GEMS’ mission is to interest young people, who might not otherwise give serious thought to becoming scientists or engineers, in STEM careers early enough that they have the time to attain the appropriate academic training. The program is based on a multi-disciplinary educational curriculum, and is focused on age and grade-appropriate hands-on activities, in areas such as science, engineering, mathematics, computational sciences, computational biology, biomedical sciences, chemistry, and biology.
You’ll get to…
- Work with other students your age to explore STEM topics that are related to current, cutting-edge U.S. Army research
- Work beside college students who are pursuing STEM careers
- Learn about STEM in a hands-on, lab-based environment – no textbooks
- Meet students, teachers, scientists, and engineers who live and work near you
Where it Happens
Eleven states host in-person camps at Army research sites. Virtual GEMS is open to students everywhere. Select a state on the map below to see what’s available near you!
Volunteer and Work with Us
All GEMS sites use a combination of teachers and near-peer mentors to help staff the programs. All teachers and near-peer mentors receive a stipend based on experience and education level.
Near-Peer Mentor
GEMS relies on local college and high school students to work alongside teachers and U.S. Army scientists and engineers to provide inquiry-based, hands-on lab experiments and activities. This is not just a summer work opportunity but a way to give back to your local community and gain experience. If you:
- Are 16 years of age or older,
- Want to mentor other students with hands-on experiments in U.S. Army research labs and engineering centers,
- Desire to share your passion for STEM with others
then apply to be a near-peer mentor! Explore the in-person camp locations to find one near you.
GEMS Teacher
GEMS relies on local teachers to work alongside U.S. Army scientists and engineers to provide inquiry-based, hands-on lab experiments and activities. The goal is to interest young people in STEM careers early enough that they have the time to prepare for their academic futures. If you:
- Have a teaching certificate or degree in a STEM subject
- Want to introduce students to hands-on experiments and learning
then apply to be a GEMS teacher! Explore the in-person camp locations and virtual camp (STEM Force Discovery Lab) to find the right opportunity for you.
Still have questions?
Send a note to the GEMS program office. We answer most messages within two business days.
