REU Site for Materials Research and Engineering

Harvard University, Cambridge MA

Investigators

Abstract

Harvard University establishes an interdisciplinary Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site. The REU Site is affiliated with the Center for Imaging and Mesoscale Structures at Harvard, which includes thirty-four faculty members from a wide range of disciplines. Twelve undergraduate students, with backgrounds in chemistry, physics, biology, engineering or geophysics, are recruited every year for a 10-week summer research experience. The REU Site especially encourages participation of members from underrepresented groups in science and engineering. Students participate in research activities spanning various areas of materials science, such as self-assembly of soft materials, mechanical properties of thin films, and the development of materials and tools for biology. Additional career development opportunities at the REU Site include an ethics component. The REU Site also supports three teachers each year for a six-week summer research experience. In addition to involvement in research activities, teachers develop peer instruction techniques and curricular materials for their classrooms.