Science Education

Brain Awareness Week is a global campaign to foster public enthusiasm and support for brain science. Each year, NIMH staff and scientists participate in the National Museum of Health and Medicine’s Brain Awareness Week program by sharing interactive and fun activities to help kids learn about the brain and the impact neuroscience research on our everyday lives. This program is designed specifically for middle school students and the sessions are hosted by local, governmental, and non-profit science organizations. During the week, NIMH also highlights facts and resources about the brain on its social media channels.

The mission of the USA Science & Engineering Festival is to stimulate and sustain the interest of our nation’s youth in STEM by producing and presenting educational events and programs. NIMH staff participates in the festival by sharing hands-on STEM activities designed for K-12 students. Many NIH Institutes and Centers also participate in the festival.

We offer free materials to educate kids about the brain and mental health. Find additional educational resources about mental health on NIH’s STEM Teaching Resources website, a collection of free materials educators can use to engage students in science.

NIMH’s Women Leading Mental Health Research webpage highlights women who are early-career scientists conducting NIMH-funded research that plays a role in advancing our mission of transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses. Learn why their work is important and read their advice for young girls and women interested in pursuing a career in mental health research.