K-12 Learning
Proud Member of STEM Forward
STEM Educational Experiences
Offering educational experiences and tours that are hands-on and interactive are important to help increase knowledge of STEM education and The Hormel Institute’s research. Experiences include visits to labs to hear from scientists, viewing protozoa and other samples under the microscopes, 3-D stations, experiments with liquid nitrogen and dry ice, learning about the Institute’s Cryo-EM microscope (one of the most powerful microscopes in the world), and opportunities to learn about the Institute’s history, mission, and work. To learn more about the Education Experiences and how to schedule one, visit https://www.hi.umn.edu/education/educational-tours/.
7th Grade Tours
7th grade classes come to The Hormel Institute for a special tour of the Institute. They meet scientists, see hands on experiments, and see where scientists work!
 |
 |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Middle School Scientist Visits
The Hormel Institute scientists go to different middle school science classes and talk about biomedical research, science careers, and more!
Science Fair
The Hormel Institute scientists help judge the science fairs. Winners of local science fair and their families get a special one on one tour of The Hormel Institute.
 |
 |
|---|
Science Saturdays
The Hormel Institute is excited to offer Science Saturdays to inspire the next generation of scientists. In the weeks leading up to each Science Saturday, you will be able to reserve a kit and then receive instructions on when to pick it up. The kit contains instructions and supplies to complete a fun science experiment at home.
Upcoming Science Saturday Dates: June 3 and October 7. More information coming soon.
 |
 |
|---|---|
 |
 |
See more photos from the February Science Saturday experiment here
Family Learning Days at The Hormel Institute
Family Learning Days provide opportunities for families to engage in hands-on learning activities focused on STEM education. Participants have the chance to learn more about The Hormel Institute, its rich history, and the research that is currently being done.
Career Fairs
Scientists from The Hormel Institute participate in career fairs hosted by schools and organizations, including Riverland Community College. Scientists talk about STEM careers, their journey to becoming a scientist at the Institute, and their research. The goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Art of Microscopy
“The Art of Microscopy” is an exhibit that can be found in the hallways of Riverland Community College in Austin. These art showcases images captured by microscopes at The Hormel Institute and serve as a unique way to showcase the research. Thirteen additional images are available to be checked out as a traveling exhibit to be used around the region. Please contact Community Outreach and Education Manager, Kelly Vincelette at kelly521@umn.edu for more information.
