MT NSF EPSCoR develops research-linked programs that build capacity within Montana ensuring that available statewide human and institutional resources play a meaningful role in the pursuit of the goals of each project. We additionally partner with Montana's seven tribal colleges to connect MUS research to education for advancing inclusion of Montana's Native American communities in STEM opportunities.
Native Research Network (NRN)
The Native Research Network (NRN) will build Native research capacity in Montana but outside of the Montana University System and create a pathway for STEM training for Native American students192and leverage existing partnerships.
Montana Girls STEM Collaborative
The CREWS project will work with the Montana Girls STEM Collaborative at MSU, a program which has reached thousands of students. Although K-12 girls are the target, impact includes boys, Native Americans, rural students and other underrepresented minorities including rural students. The Montana Girls STEM Collaborative was launched by NSF EPSCoR, is a chapter of the NSF-funded National Girls Collaborative Project (HRD-1103073), and has served hundreds of K-12 teachers, educators, afterschool professionals, youth leaders, parents, and business/industry professionals.
UM Indigenous Research and STEM Education (IRSE)
Indigenous Research and STEM Education (IRSE) is dedicated to the advancement of Native American, Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian, and First Nation students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) academic disciplines and professions. Montana EPSCoR provides support to IRSE to work with Montana's tribal communities and colleges and ensure culturally-supported education for indigenous undergraduate and graduate students at UM. Director Dr. Aaron Thomas develops a multitude of programs that ensure inclusive opportunities at all levels.