The National Science Foundation makes possible a number of opportunities for undergraduates to join research projects each summer. This allows students to experience first-hand how basic research is carried out, and to contribute consequentially.
REU "Sites" are established in all fields of science, mathematics, and engineering. Each Site consists of a group of ten or so undergraduates, who work in the research programs of the host institution. Students are in general accepted from throughout the country. Each student is assigned to a specific research project, where he/she works closely with the faculty, post-docs, and graduate students. In addition, seminars, lunch meetings, and social functions are organized to facilitate interaction between the undergraduates.
Students are granted stipends, and in some cases assistance with housing and travel. Students who are in those groups traditionally under-represented in science (women, members of under-represented minorities, and those with disabilities) are particularly urged to apply. Research sites are available in the following engineering and science specialties:
Atmospheric Sciences
Biological Sciences
Chemistry
Computer and Information Science and Engineering
Earth Sciences
Engineering (all branches)
Mathematical Sciences
Ocean Sciences
Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research
Physics, Materials Science, & Astronomy
Each REU site takes applications separately. Click Here to go to the detailed description, list of sites, and application procedures for each site.