REU Site: Wyoming Infrared Observatory's Summer Undergraduate Research Assistanship Program (SURAP)

University Of Wyoming, Laramie WY

Investigators

Abstract

Proposal ID: AST-0353760 Institution: University of Wyoming PI: Canterna, Ronald A Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site will be continued at the University of Wyoming Infrared Observatory (WIRO) Summer Undergraduate Research Assistanship Program (SURAP), under the direction of Ronald Canterna. The objective of the SURAP REU program is to offer undergraduates across the nation its tutorial program in astronomical research. Specific goals include: Introducing undergraduates to a realistic and fulfilling experience in astrophysics research, including current concerns about science ethics. Acquainting undergraduates with the diverse research fields in modern astrophysics, and provide opportunities to work directly with active professionals. The students will be given the responsibility to become independent, creative researchers. Offering undergraduates valuable observing experience. Placing undergraduates in a socially diverse environment with student colleagues from diverse cultural, geographical and educational backgrounds. Encouraging undergraduates to disseminate their research results in publications and at professional meetings. Exposing undergraduates to a wide variety of additional scientific and outdoor endeavors unique to the Wyoming and Rocky Mountain region. In each of the five years of the grant, seven undergraduate students will be chosen from colleges and universities throughout the nation. Special emphasis will be placed on meeting the SURAP goal of selecting students from diverse backgrounds by concentrating on freshman and sophomore undergraduates, women and under-represented minority students from liberal arts colleges and small universities with limited research facilities. A concurrent academic/laboratory course and research seminar will be undertaken, as will dedicated seminars designed to address issues related to science ethics. A Research Experience for Teachers (RET) component will also be included, which will allow two K-12 teachers to participate fully in the research activities. This proposal is co-funded by the Division of Astronomical Sciences and the Office of Multidisciplinary Activities in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate, and the Division of Ethics and Values Studies in the Social, Behavioral and Economical Sciences Directorate.