Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Programs
GEMSEC's state of the art research at the confluence of biology, materials and engineering is expanding the boundaries of these interdisciplinary fields by discovering the secrets of biology and implementing them molecule by molecule in the development of new materials for technology and medicine (see list of publications on our web site). We offer many opportunities to dedicated undergraduate students interested in exploring this exciting frontier with us. If you think GEMSEC may be a good place for you to gain research experience during your undergraduate program, consider applying for one of the programs below.
Summer REU Program
The Genetically Engineered Materials Science and Engineering Center (GEMSEC) at the University of Washington hosts a 10 week Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program. Engineering and science students with broad interests across disciplines focusing on biomimetics, materials science, or nanotechnology are eligible to apply through a formal application process.
Participants in this ten-week program will be actively involved in hands-on scientific research with broad applications - e.g., bio-engineering, chemistry, electronics, materials science, optics, optoelectronics, physics, and the life sciences. Research projects will be designed and supervised by faculty members and interns will also work closely with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and technical staff on projects using the unique resources offered through GEMSEC. Participants will both write up and present their research at the end of the summer.
Participants will receive a $3,800 stipend. Additionally housing; travel expenses to and from the UW may be covered for non-local students. Interns will be responsible for their own meals.
Eligibility Requirements: Participants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions, and must be enrolled in a degree program (part-time or full-time) leading to a baccalaureate or associate degree; students who are transferring from one college or university to another may participate. Students who have received their bachelor's degrees are not eligible.
Minority and female candidates are especially encouraged to apply.
Look for the application in Winter of 2011
Long Term REU
GEMSEC also offers research opportunities for undergraduates during the rest of the school year. This program requires a long term commitment, in addition to a qualified background, as well as regular participation in research activities, frequent report preparations and research discussions. The types of research may vary from helping grad students and post-docs in the lab to preparing biological and biomimetic solutions, biocombinatorial selection of peptides, peptide purification and identification, the use of peptides for biofunctionalization of implants, cell-free tissue regeneration and restoration, nanoparticle synthesis, functionalization and use as molecular probe carriers in cancer research, bionanosensors, implementation of bio-enebled nanophotonics, nanoelectronics and nanomagnetics for emerging nano and molecular technologies toward the exploration and design of future self-assembled molecular devices.
There is no formal application process or deadline to participate in this program. Each application is considered on the case-by-case basis. To apply, please email ____ describing your interest in GEMSEC research activities, your qualifications, which could include your transcript, resume or CV, and your availability for the foreseeable time period you wish to participate in the program.
The GEMSEC REU Program is supported by the National Science Foundation.