The NIH Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) Metagenomics Education Partnership Program at the University at Buffalo engaged Western New York high school students and teachers in authentic genomics research through hands-on metagenomic analysis of local water samples. Across the six-year grant period, external evaluation findings showed that the program successfully increased student STEM identity, confidence, and sense of belonging in science while expanding teacher capacity to deliver advanced, real-world STEM content.
Students consistently identified laboratory experiences, university exposure, and Capstone presentations as the most impactful components of the program. Final-year alumni findings further suggested that participation influenced college coursework, undergraduate research involvement, and long-term STEM career pathways, demonstrating sustained impact beyond the life of the grant.