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Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, the Scientist in Residence Program excites, inspires and supports elementary school children and teachers to discover the world through hands-on science. Scientists collaborate with teachers throughout the school year and engage children in the process of science through six or more visits in classrooms and on field trips. Through these direct interactions, scientists are positive role models, teachers enhance their comfort and abilities to teach science, and students develop positive attitudes and have fun while they learn about diverse aspects of science. Children gain skills such as keen observation, critical thinking, and thoughtful communication. These are essential life skills as well as science skills.

Paige Axelrood, Ph.D., is the Founder and Managing Director of the Scientist in Residence Program. Catriona Gordon, M.Sc., is the Assistant Program Manager of the Scientist in Residence Program. They collaborate with Valerie Overgaard, Ph.D., Associate Superintendent of Learning Services, and others at the Vancouver Board of Education to deliver the Program to Vancouver schools. Since 2004, 114 teachers, 20 scientists in residence, and more than more than 2400 students in kindergarten through grade 7 have participated in the Program at 37 elementary schools in the Vancouver School District, plus one elementary school in the West Vancouver School District.

The scientists in residence have M.Sc. or Ph.D. degrees in fields including botany, plant pathology, environmental sciences, fish physiology, marine biology and deep sea ecology, cell biology and medical genetics, human biology, physics, and electrical engineering. The scientists are researchers, instructors, project managers, and consultants. Many of them have had some affiliation with the University of British Columbia.

The successes of the Program are directly related to the involvement of our passionate, creative, and dedicated scientists and teachers, their collaborative work, and the engaged and energized elementary school students. Please visit our Gallery to learn about their experiences and to catch glimpses of the program through photos and students’ drawings. Program delivery in elementary schools is highlighted in a radio interview and in the following articles.