Undergraduate Research

Active hands-on research infuses the traditional undergraduate curriculum with excitement. These experiences provide a glimpse into the life of a scientific researcher and opportunities to meet and work with world-renowned scientists. The center offers the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, under the leadership of Professor Mark Hersam, each summer.

The REU program is held for a 9-week period over the summer. Participants engage in full-time research on a nanotechnology-related topic. Regular group meetings give students opportunities to share their progress along the way, and gain a broad overview of a wide array of scientific projects. Additional activities include special lectures, field trips, a public speaking seminar, technical writing workshops, summer picnic, and tours of facilities and laboratories.

At the end of the summer, each participant completes a substantive research paper which is submitted for publication in Nanoscape - the first undergraduate journal of nanotechnology in the country and participate in the peer-review process.

A closing symposium completes the experience.

Eligibility and Application Process
Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, majoring in the physical sciences or engineering, with at least one year left to complete their degree. Applicants are selected based upon academic achievements and scientific interests. Efforts are also made to offer these opportunties to students from smaller schools where research equipment and opportunities might not be available, and to encourage participation by young women and minorities. You may download an application by clicking on the link below, email a request to nanotechnology@northwestern.edu, or call 847/467-4862.

REU Application

June 23 - August 22, 2008

Deadline for Application - February 15.
Stipend - $4,000
Program also includes round-trip airfare and housing in Northwestern dormitories.