Programs

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Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026, 03:10 PM

The STEM Programs offered by the STEM Education Research Center (SERC) at Southern Illinois University provide year-round educational, research, and outreach opportunities designed to strengthen STEM learning across K–12, undergraduate, educator, and community audiences. These programs focus on hands-on learning, research-based practices, and real-world problem solving, fostering curiosity, innovation, and academic success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

Through partnerships with schools, educators, researchers, and community organizations, SERC’s Programs support STEM literacy, workforce readiness, and equitable access to high-quality STEM experiences, extending beyond summer camps to sustained learning and impact throughout the year.

Our Programs

SERC’s Programs provide year-round educational, research, and outreach opportunities that engage learners, educators, and communities in meaningful STEM experiences.

  • IJSHS

    Students compete with original research projects, gain presentation experience, and connect with peers and scientists

    Illinois Junior Science and Humanities Symposium

  • Professional Development

    Building Classroom Excellence with Innovative STEM Professional Development

    Empowering Educators Through Research-Driven Professional Learning

  • K-12

    Connecting Students to STEM Growth Through Interactive Learning and Competitions

    Inspiring K–12 Learners with Hands-On STEM Experiences and Challenges

  • Clean Soil Initiative

    Hands-On Environmental STEM Lessons for Cleaner Communities and Deeper Learning

    Empowering Environmental Learning with Inquiry-Based Clean Soil Curriculum

  • Undergraduate Resources

    Transforming Undergraduate STEM Learning with Hands-On Research and Academic Opportunities

    Advancing Undergraduate STEM Success Through Research, Mentorship, and Enrichment

  • Saluki Teen Science Café

    Connect with STEM Experts, Build Curiosity, and Lead Projects

    Explore Science & Technology in a Fun, Interactive Café for Teens

  • Research

    Showcasing student and faculty research, workshops, and hands‑on investigations that advance STEM knowledge.

    Featuring real research abstracts, presentations, and collaborative scientific inquiry.