San Juan College (SJC) Professor of Geology John Burris has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2026 STEM Student Experiences Aboard Ships (STEMSEAS) 2-Year College Faculty Expedition.
STEMSEAS is a national initiative that provides immersive research experiences for community college faculty and students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The expedition sailed June 7–14 aboard the R/V Sally Ride, a research vessel operated by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The voyage traveled from Seward, Alaska, to Newport, Oregon, giving faculty participants a firsthand look at oceanographic research, scientific data collection, and career pathways in Earth and marine sciences.
Burris was selected from a competitive nationwide applicant pool, joining faculty members from 14 institutions across nine states. His participation reflects SJC’s commitment to providing innovative STEM education and creating meaningful learning opportunities that prepare students for successful careers in science and technology.
Bringing Real-World Science Back to the Classroom
Since joining SJC in 2004, Burris has dedicated his career to helping students experience geology through hands-on learning and field-based exploration. His teaching approach encourages students to move beyond textbooks and engage directly with scientific discovery.
“Professor Burris has spent more than two decades creating transformative field experiences for our students, encouraging them to explore beyond the classroom and engage directly with scientific discovery,” said Veronica Evans, Dean of the School of Math, Science and Engineering at San Juan College. “We are excited to see how this experience will strengthen opportunities for our students to participate in research and STEM career pathways.”
Through the STEMSEAS expedition, Burris will gain new perspectives on oceanographic and Earth science research while developing connections that can help expand research opportunities.
Experiencing Research at Sea
The STEMSEAS Faculty Expedition places participants in the role of student researchers, allowing them to experience the program from the same perspective as undergraduate participants. During the voyage, faculty members learn how scientific instruments are used aboard research vessels, collect and analyze data, hear from scientists and crew members about career opportunities, and design and conduct their own mini research projects.
The expedition was led by a team of experienced community college faculty who previously participated in STEMSEAS and now serve as mentors for future cohorts.
“Participating in STEMSEAS is an incredible opportunity to experience science in an entirely new environment and bring those lessons back to our students,” said Burris. “I’m excited to gain firsthand experience with the program and help connect San Juan College students to opportunities that expand their horizons, build confidence, and inspire them to pursue careers in science.”
Expanding STEM Career Pathways for Community College Students
A primary goal of the STEMSEAS 2-Year College Faculty Expedition is to increase participation among community college students and faculty in scientific research experiences. Faculty who complete the expedition are prepared to serve as STEMSEAS instructor-mentors on future voyages, helping guide students through hands-on research opportunities at sea.
“We are thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity for community college faculty, one of our nation’s most overlooked resources,” said STEMSEAS leader Sharon Cooper. “Our hope is that this unique professional development expedition will lead to increased collaborations between two- and four-year institutions, greater numbers of community college faculty sailing as mentors, and increased opportunities for community college students to experience science at sea.”
About STEMSEAS
Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), STEMSEAS is a national initiative designed to provide undergraduate students from all backgrounds with transformative experiences aboard U.S.-operated oceanographic research vessels. The program introduces students to oceanography, Earth science, marine research, and a variety of STEM careers while building valuable professional networks and research skills.
Since its launch in 2016, STEMSEAS has provided more than 300 students with opportunities to participate in research voyages alongside scientists, educators, and industry professionals. The first dedicated 2-Year College expedition was launched in 2023 and resulted in significant growth in community college participation across the country.
For San Juan College, Burris’ selection represents another step forward in expanding access to high-impact STEM learning experiences and strengthening opportunities for students interested in geology, environmental science, and other STEM disciplines.
Learn More About STEM Opportunities at San Juan College
Students interested in geology, Earth science, engineering, mathematics, and other STEM fields can explore a wide range of programs and hands-on learning opportunities through the School of Math, Science and Engineering.
Learn more about the STEMSEAS program and the 2026 faculty expedition.
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