![Two researchers working in the cleanroom at Georgia Tech](/sites/default/files/2024-06/education_and_outreach_overview.jpg)
Education and Outreach
The Institute for Matter and Systems inspires the next generation and equips the workforce with the skills necessary to collaborate and communicate across multiple disciplines — from matter to systems. A variety of outreach programs reaching K-12 through adult learners are offered through IMS.
Short Courses and Workshops
As part of our mission to develop and cultivate the next generation, IMS hosts a variety of professional development events. Topics include cleanroom techniques, advanced lithography techniques, applications of nanotechnology research, and seminars on nanotechnology as it relates to other fields of engineering. These events are open to both Georgia Tech and other institutions’ researchers and educators, as well as to those in industry and the public.
![Group of recent graduates of the IMS veteran's program](/sites/default/files/certificate-for-veterans.png)
Certificate for Veterans
The Microelectronics and Nanomanufacturing Certificate Program (MNCP) is designed for veterans and funded by the National Science Foundation. It offers live-streamed lectures and hands-on cleanroom training at local partner universities.
Instructional Labs
The IMS Instructional Laboratory supports courses for Georgia Tech students that combine lecture and hands-on fabrication experience. Both undergraduate and graduate students gain real-world experience with advanced tool availability, laboratory, and cleanroom environments.
![A cohort of the Research Experience for Undergrads at Georgia Tech](/sites/default/files/research-experience-for-undergrads.png)
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
IMS provides opportunities for undergraduates through the Research Experiences for Undergraduates Summer program and the Technical College Internship Programs. Students from 2- and 4-year programs are invited for the chance to perform cutting-edge research at the forefront of nanoscale science and engineering.
![Members of the Research Experiences for Teachers program in the cleanroom at Georgia Tech.](/sites/default/files/resources-for-educators.png)
K-12 Resources
IMS offers opportunities for educators to learn about and teach nanotechnology. The Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) program for high school teachers and technical college faculty offers a paid opportunity to experience the excitement of nanotechnology research and to share this experience in their classrooms. The Summer Nanoscience Institute for Middle School Teachers (NanoSIMST) is a five-day workshop in which teachers will learn about nanoscience, develop lesson plans, and receive hands-on activities that bring nanoscience into the classroom.
![The Institute for Matter and Systems education and outreach office go in a classroom teaching.](/sites/default/files/community-outreach.png)
Community Engagement
The education and outreach office at IMS offers various programs for schools, groups, and teachers. For student groups, we provide programs that introduce students to nanotechnology through lectures, hands-on activities, demonstrations, and tours. Through SENIC, IMS provides the public access to nanotechnology teaching aids and participates in public outreach events.