Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers The National Science Foundation

Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program - Summer, 2008

The Genetically Engineered Materials Science and Engineering Center (GEMSEC) at the University of Washington will host a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program from June 16th through August 23rd, 2008. Engineering and science students with broad interests across disciplines focusing on biomimetics, materials science, or nanotechnology are eligible to apply.

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, plus housing; travel expenses to and from the UW may be covered for non-local students. Interns will be responsible for their own meals.

Eligible Student Participants: 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.

Along with your application, we require the following materials:

  1. Your Current Transcript(s). Request that your college mail your official transcripts to: Ms. Anita Simmons, Box 352120, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195.

  2. A Personal Statement. Submit a 1-2 page essay describing; (1) the relationship between your present studies and a career in engineering or scientific research; (2) how this program might help you prepare for your future; (3) any relevant prior research experience, honors, and/or awards; (4) the research field that most interests you. If you do not believe your grades reflect your potential, please explain them in this essay. You may also include your resume if you wish. Please submit your Personal Statement to Ms. Anita Simmons by mail to the address above or by email anitas@u.washington.edu.

  3. A Letter of Recommendation. Request a letter or recommendation from a faculty member (or other person well qualified to evaluate your abilities) who knows you well and can comment with authority on your research potential. Recommendations can be mailed or emailed to Ms. Anita Simmons (as above or anitas@u.washington.edu). More than one recommendation is acceptable but not necessary.

All application materials must be received by GEMSEC by March 3rd 2008.

Online Registration

Thank you for your interest in our program!

The GEMSEC REU Program is supported by the National Science Foundation.