Research Experiences & Education
Building the future of safety science
The Institute for Research Experiences & Education is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of safety scientists — nurturing curiosity, discovery, and innovation from the very first spark in middle school all the way through college and university journeys, and into their early careers.
Our work centers on the belief that every young mind has the potential to shape a safer world, and our mission is to build the pathways that make that possible.
By transforming UL Research Institutes’ cutting-edge research into open-access resources spanning the education continuum and reimagining professional development for teachers, we are giving educators and students the tools to explore real-world issues and phenomena by asking bold questions and empowering them to propose their own solutions to these problems. Our programs and resources connect students directly to the world of safety science, helping them see themselves not just as learners, but as future researchers, innovators, engineers, and scientific thinkers.
Beyond the walls of the classroom, we believe in supporting and developing talented individuals as they enter the workforce. We support interns and fellows across UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement with the guidance, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive in a variety of safety STEM fields. We are committed to walking alongside them as they persist through degree studies and into their careers, ensuring that their passion for STEM becomes a lifelong pursuit.
And, we also believe in the transformative power that research can have on the education system as a whole. Education research and evaluation are the foundation for everything we do — guiding the design and development of our programs and initiatives. Through our educational research, we aim to uncover insights that will help us strengthen classrooms, empower educators, and inspire students nationwide. Evaluation is the core of our programs, ensuring that our efforts evolve, adapt, and remain responsive to the learners and educators we serve.
Safety Science in Classrooms & Communities
Through Xplorlabs.org, we connect students with real-world phenomena, support community partnerships, and offer yearlong educator fellowships promoting safety science education.
Safety Science Academies
Creating pathways to opportunities in safety science for students in high school through graduate school, while supporting interns and fellows with mentorship and professional development.
Education Research & Evaluation
Education research and evaluation are the foundation of our work, and drive innovation across our institute’s programming.
News & Featured Updates
Standards Academy
Holding the future to the highest standard
Standards Academy is designed for undergraduate students to learn more about what safety standards are, why they matter, and how standards are used to mitigate safety risks and hazards.
Xplorlabs
Solving with Science
Xplorlabs enables middle and high school students and educators to solve real problems through science and engineering, and become part of the movement to make the world a safer place.
Funding scientific discovery
GEM Fellowships at ULRI-ULSE
GEM Fellows at UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement have the opportunity to help in our mission to build a safer and more sustainable world.
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Sign Up for Updates
Knowledge and awareness about potential hazards associated with scientific innovations help in minimizing risks and promote best practices that improve safety. Sign up to learn more about our initiatives, partnerships, upcoming events, and free resources.
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Partnerships
Everyone benefits when world-class institutions work together to take on big challenges. Join us.
Grants
We’re funding scientific research to make the world safer, healthier, and more sustainable. Learn about funding opportunities.
Careers
Work to make the world a safer place. Start a rewarding career at UL Research Institutes with other socially minded colleagues focused on innovation, collaboration, and ethics.