Research Experiences for Undergraduates REU Site at Kent State University: Liquid Crystals - Synthetic and Natural Systems

Kent State University, Kent OH

Investigators

Abstract

The Chemistry Division award supports a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site at Kent State University for the summers of 2004-2006. The Division of Materials Research cofunds this site. Arne Gericke is the site director and Robert J. Tweig is the co-PI. This site will provide research experiences for 9 students for 10 weeks each summer. The theme of this site is "Liquid Crystals - Synthetic and Natural Systems. The objective of this interdisciplinary program is to provide a comprehensive learning experience that has chemistry at its core and yet seamlessly crosses the disciplinary boundaries of materials science, biology and chemical physics. Fifteen faculty from the Department of Chemistry and the Liquid Crystal Institute will serve as research mentors. Weekly seminars, clean room training, report writing and participation in the end-of-summer undergraduate research symposium will supplement the research activities. Recruitment will target smaller colleges in Ohio and neighboring states with limited research programs, students from underrepresented groups, and students with special circumstances. The program will be evaluated from entrance, exit and post-departure surveys, informal interviews and mentor assessments.