Research Experience for Undergraduates
Summer 2008
Summer Research Opportunities for Undergraduate Engineering and Science Students
Welcome to the Center For Compact and Efficient Fluid Power (CCEFP) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program. The program allows undergraduates to gain hands-on experience in conducting original research and apply it to cutting edge applications in fluid power and related disciplines. The program and center are funded by the National Science Foundation. Students come from all around the country to work at the seven universities that are part of the center. Students have a diverse range of majors, experiences and interests. We hope that you will consider joining us this summer. For an overview of the CCEFP and its research program, click here.
Program description
Students work in a university research lab on a project related to fluid power along with a faculty advisor with expertise in the field. Projects may involve background reading of technical literature and reports, computer-aided design, mathematical modeling, fabrication designs, experimental testing and group discussions and project team meetings. Every student has a project of their own with specific responsibilities and deliverables. At the end of the summer, every student creates a scientific poster and a project report. In addition, there is a program of professional development and social activies with other REU students. Here is a list of some examples of REU projects and professional development workshops offered within the CCEFP.
When
Ten weeks, June to August
Where
REU positions are available at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Milwaukee School of Engineering in Milwaukee, North Caroline A&T State University in Greensboro, Purdue University in West Lafayette and Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
Financial support
Every REU student receives free room and board in a university dormitory plus a weekly stipend.
Who is eligible
The program is open to full-time college students who will have completed their sophomore or junior year by June 2008, who will be enrolled as a full-time student in fall 2008 and who expect to obtain their bachelor's degree in engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, or related fields. Applicants are expected to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions. Women, minorities, and students with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as are those from colleges and universities without significant research opportunities. No experience in research or in fluid power is required, just an interest and a desire to try something new.
How to apply
Complete the application form and follow the guidelines below. Questions or concerns can be addressed to Alyssa Burger, Education and Outreach Director.
Application materials include the following:
- On-line application form
- One-page cover letter indicating your interest in fluid power, why you should be selected as a participant (included in online form).
- One-page resume (included in online form).
- Names, titles and e-mail addresss of your references (included in online form).
- A current school-issued transcript (official or unofficial) that indicates current gpa.
- Two letters of recommendation from faculty members who are familiar with your academic ability, ability to function independently and your research or career goals. One of the two letters may come from a professional work supervisor. Request that letter writers send their letter by email directly to Ms. Burger.
Application deadline
Applications are no longer being accepted. Thank you for your interest.
Questions?
Contact Alyssa Burger, Education and Outreach Director
612-624-4991
aburger@me.umn.edu
