Julie Thomas

Julie Thomas is a Research Professor of science education in the College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Beginning in the elementary classroom (14 years), Thomas recognized children’s science enthusiasm and decided to pursue a doctoral degree in science education. Now, as a university professor (20 years), Thomas enjoys research and teaching related to elementary science education. She has led numerous funded projects and published research focused on children’s science learning and teacher professional development. Proud accomplishments include collaborative efforts – such as No Duck Left Behind, a partnership with waterfowl biologists to promote wetland education efforts, and Engineering is Everywhere (E2), a partnership with a materials engineer to develop a time-efficient model for STEM career education. Throughout her teaching career, Thomas has been active in professional associations such as the School Science and Mathematics Association (SSMA-Past Executive Director), National Science Teachers’ Association (NSTA-Awards and Nominations Committees), and the Council for Elementary Children International (CESI-Past President).