Philip Bell

Philip Bell is a Professor in the Learning Sciences & Human Development at the University of Washington College of Education. He holds the Shauna C. Larson Endowed Chair in Learning Sciences and serves as Director of the Institute for Science + Math Education. Additionally, he co-directs the LIFE Science of Learning Center, focusing on equity-driven innovation in STEM education.

• Education: PhD and MEd in Human Development & Cognition, Science/Math Education from UC Berkeley (1998, 1996); BS in Electrical Engineering & Computer Science from University of Colorado Boulder (1989).

Bell’s research emphasizes cognitive and cultural approaches to learning across diverse environments, including everyday science expertise, learning technology design, culturally expansive instruction, and large-scale educational reform. His work bridges formal and informal learning contexts, addressing equity through participatory design research.

Recent research trends include culturally sustaining pedagogies, climate justice science education, and systemic equity in STEM. His team develops STEM Teaching Tools and collaborates with national networks to improve science standards and instructional coherence.

• Scientific Awards: Shauna C. Larson Endowed Chair in Learning Sciences.

Bell mentors a diverse group of doctoral students and has advised numerous PhD/MEd graduates now in academic and research roles. His projects span K-12 STEM innovation, science communication, and equity-focused policy, including contributions to the Next Generation Science Standards.

He leads the Institute for Science + Math Education and collaborates with the Research+Practice Collaboratory, Seattle/Renton school districts, and national teams to scale equitable science education.