About DEVCOM ARL – Army Research Office

ARO is a directorate within DEVCOM ARL responsible for setting and executing the nationwide extramural research agenda and programs on Army focused basic research to provide critical enhancements to current warfighter needs and revolutionary advances required for technological dominance of the future force with emphasis on the Army’s Modernization Priorities GEMS participants will be engaged in hands-on activities, work in collaborative groups and interact with scientists and engineers to explore STEM subjects and careers.

Sessions

GEMS I:  Students entering 6th– 8th grade will explore various hands-on activities using the scientific method and engineering process throughout the one-week session. Some of these will include explorations in microbiology, potential and kinetic energy, chemical and physical reactions and more.

More Information

  1. GEMS is free of charge.
  2. Student Sessions: One-Week, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (ET)
  3. Students must attend the whole program week. No exceptions.
  4. Near-Peer Mentor Weeks: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (ET)
  5. Near-Peer Mentors must attend the mandatory orientation. No exceptions.
  6. Near-Peer Mentors must attend all program weeks. No exceptions.

Important Dates

November 15, 2024
Near-Peer Mentor and Teacher Applications Open

January 6, 2025
Student Applications Open

January 31, 2025
Near-Peer Mentor and Teacher Applications Close

April 15, 2025
Student Applications Close

July 7 - 11, 2025
Program Dates

For Educators

Teachers work collaboratively with STEM professionals to develop curriculum, supervise and provide instruction to students through thought provoking hands-on lab activities related to DEVCOM ARL’s current research initiatives. Applicants must be U. S. citizens. A current teaching certification is required.

Information for Near-Peer Mentors

Near-Peer Mentors work collaboratively with teachers, scientists, and engineers to provide instruction and engage students in inquiry-based, hands-on lab activities related to DEVCOM ARL’s research programs. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and at least 16 years old. Experience working with students is preferred.

Interested in This Program?

If you are interested in this program email us or call 301-580-1001. We'd love to hear from you!