Rodger W. Bybee

Rodger W. Bybee is a leading voice in science education, renowned for heading a team of colleagues at the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS) in developing the BSCS 5E Instructional Model, a dynamic framework that empowers students to learn through inquiry and discovery. Likewise, he was instrumental as a writing team leader for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Dr. Bybee completed his PhD in Science Education at New York University. Throughout his career, Dr. Bybee spearheaded national efforts to modernize science curricula and expand professional development for educators. His academic career spans all levels of teaching—from elementary classrooms to university lecture halls—and includes a professorship at Carleton College. Dr. Bybee also served as Executive Director of the National Research Council’s Center for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Education, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the 1996 National Science Education Standards, and chaired the content working group for that initiative. He advised on science content for the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) and Trends in Math Science Study (TIMSS), and he was Chair of the science expert group for the 2006 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). 

A prolific author and respected scholar, Dr. Bybee has written several foundational texts, including Achieving Scientific Literacy: From Purposes to Practices and The BSCS 5E Instructional Model: Creating Teachable Moments. His work with the National Academies, the U.S. Department of Education, and the National Science Foundation reflects his deep commitment to advancing STEM education at the highest levels. These contributions have earned him numerous accolades, such as Outstanding Science Educator of the Year, the Distinguished Service to Science Education Award by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the first-ever American Institute of Biological Sciences Education Award, and the Robert H. Carleton Award—the highest honor from the NSTA--for his leadership and impact on science education. Through both scholarship and practice, Rodger Bybee has inspired generations of educators to make science accessible, engaging, and relevant.