Volunteering

The Berkeley Lab Teaching Scholars Program is a joint collaboration between the Career Pathways Office and the K-12 programs at Berkeley Lab. 

The program seeks to help Berkeley Lab staff strengthen their science communication skills, gain experiences in formal and informal education, and provide connections to the local community. In return, the K-12 programs gain a stronger team of experts capable of explaining difficult subjects to broad audiences. This opportunity is open to ALL Berkeley Lab employees. 

Quantum Systems Accelerator 

From supporting the Quantum Systems Accelerator has supported the deveopmemnt of implementation of several quantum  programs. Berkeley  and Sandia researchers have contributed to the development of modules, provided lectures, and hosted  many tours supporting hundreds of students and educators. With the support of Eileen Dawson and QSA lead, Bert de Jong, the relationship between K-12 and QSA has grown stronger over the past few years. Thank you for making STEM communication, mentoring, and curriculum development an integral part of the QSA culture over the past five years.

The Machine Shop - Engineering Div.

The Machine Shop has been instrumental in providing hundreds of students with engaging and educational experiences in engineering, manufacturing, and machining at Berkeley Lab. Over the past five years, their dedication to creating an inclusive and accessible environment has been crucial to delivering high-impact STEM visits that inspire and empower students from across the Bay Area. 

Northen Lab (EcoFAB Project) 

Researcher's from the Northen group have contributed to K-12 STEM programs since 2020. Specifically, the group was one of the first reseach -education curriuclum collaborations for the Berkeley Lab Diector's Apprenteicmehip Progaram. The EcoFAB project provided an opportuntiy to give students a hands-on project during shelter-in-place in 2020 and has continued to be a conerstone of the program. More than 100 students have completed the six-week EcoFAB curriculum since 2020 and many alumni say the project inspired them to major in biology. 

Security and Emergency Services 

K-12 STEM programs slowly transitioned from virtual to in-person programming in 2021. Security and Emergency Services employees has been integral in providing a smooth experience for all visitors, summer camp participants, and interns. From creating specialized badges, meeting parents at the North Berkeley BART, to helping manage small and large visits on site, the has been critical to program success. 

Human Resources - Shared Services

The Human Resources staff has been instrumental in onboarding hundreds of high school interns, providing critical support during orientation, and helping the K-12 STEM team navigate complex questions related to working with minors at Berkeley Lab. The team's hard work and expertise have been invaluable to our success, and we deeply appreciate their tireless efforts.