REU Site: Catalysis in a Collaborative REU Program at the University of Utah

University Of Utah, Salt Lake City UT

Investigators

Abstract

The REU program in the Division of Chemistry supports "REU Site: Catalysis in a Collaborative REU Program at the University of Utah." Professors Louie, Rainier, and colleague host 10 undergraduate students each year for a 10 week summer research experience. This program aims to equip new generations of scientists with opportunities to engage in modern research. Students will conduct individual research projects with a general focus on catalytic chemistry and in areas spanning from biological catalysis to organometallic chemistry to sustainable energy. This interconnected program is designed not only to teach the students about catalytic chemistry, but also to provide them with a foundation of the fundamentals of chemistry and chemical research. The REU program will also include joint and parallel activities with other STEM REU programs in the College of Science, which includes programs in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the Materials Research Science & Engineering Center (MRSEC), the Bioscience Summer Undergraduate Research Program, the Native American Summer Research Internship (NARI), and the Center for Science and Math Education (CSME). Synergistic activities will include career development events, tours of scientific facilities, optional training sessions on various modern instrumentation, as well as extracurricular outings. Students will give presentations throughout the program and culminating with a presentation at a final, celebratory Symposium and Poster Session. Overall, the REU program aims to foster a sense of confidence in discussing and practicing chemistry by: (1) providing undergraduates with transformative research experiences in innovative chemistry projects under the guidance of faculty members in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Utah, (2) educating students about their career options and providing them with a positive image of a career in chemistry, (3) exposing students to the greater scientific community by having our REU researchers interact with other researchers in the College of Science, many of whom will be outside of their immediate field of study.