Germantown Friends School recently launched a novel science course that pairs students with professional scientists, writes Kyle Bagenstone.

The “Science Research” course, which launched in fall 2023, brings GFS students out of the classroom and into the working laboratories of scientists from all across the region.

The course is spearheaded by the Science Department Chair Eva Porter, who believes science is something to not just be learned, but experienced.

Seven students were enrolled in the course’s inaugural year, which focused heavily on preparing students for the rigors of scientific research.

For the upcoming year, Porter wants students to get more experience in performing literature reviews and reading scientific articles.

With that, the plan is for the students who decide to return for a second year to be paired with working scientists at academic institutions to assist with their research.

However, the students will have autonomy and responsibility in seeking out scientists.

“They’ll have to research who the scientists are in Philadelphia or New Jersey who are doing the work they’re interested in. They’ll have to read their articles and the research they have done,” said Porter. “We’ll help them make the connections: help them with their resumes, cover letters, and emails. But it will be more of a student-driven effort.”

Learn more at the “Science Research” course at Germantown Friends School.

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