9731285 Desert Research Institute Paul Buck The Desert Research Institute provides a 36-month Teacher and Student Development Through Research Experience project. The project engages a total of 90 high school teachers and 90 high school students in research themes relevant to Nevada curricula. Senior scientists of the University and Community College System of Nevada direct intensive summer field studies during the summer, preceded by teacher and scientist training, and followed throughout the school year by data analysis, interpretation and presentation of results.