The Iowa Sciences Academy (ISA) is home to a range of programs that support the success of undergraduate students interested in research and scientific communication. Through ISA programs, students have access to hands-on research, professional development, and scientific outreach opportunities. We strive to build a strong cohort of students, staff, and faculty engaged in the sciences.  ISA strives to create pathways to access higher education and career goals for students who feel they need extra support and training, such as students who are first generation, rural, receive Pell grants, or have a disability. If you’re a student interested in our programs, learn more here.

Funding for the ISA has been provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Office of the Vice President for Research, the Graduate College, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the Office of the Provost as well as donor support from Drs. Robert J. and Sue B. Latham.

ISA is currently a member of the NSF Iowa Illinois Nebraska STEM Partnership for Innovation in Research and Education (IINSPIRE) which is an alliance among 16 two-year and four-year colleges and universities working together to attract students to STEM education opportunities in Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska.

The Latham Fellowship Program was established through the generous donation of Drs. Bob and Sue Latham of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The program is based in the University of Iowa College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) and provides selected Fellows the opportunity to design and implement science outreach projects in the community. 

The Department of Biology at the University of Iowa is the administrative home of the ISA program and is located in the Biology Building.