Research Topics for 2008
We anticipate available funding for at least 25 REU positions during Summer, 2008. The assignments of research areas will be based on individual interests as expressed on the application form.
There are currently three (3) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programs to consider, each with a different area of focus:
- Field-Responsive Materials: This REU program is organized around the theme of macromolecular systems that respond to electromagnetic energy. Undergraduate research and education will be integrated in a planned program focused on the design, synthesis and characterization of macromolecular complexes and systems that respond to electric fields, magnetic fields, and to light.
- Materials and Processes for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: This REU program involves students in research related to new fuel cell materials development; new methods for materials processing that yield high performanc fuel cell assemblies; new techniques and theories for materials characterization; new approaches for performance modeling that reveal the impact of materials and design on system performance.
- Macromolecular Interfaces with Life Sciences: This REU program concentrates on bridging the gap between traditional macromolecular science and biological disciplines. The research foundation of the MILES – IGERT program includes basic and applied research the areas of: Investigations of oxygen-centered free radical mechanisms; Oxidation in bio-derived monomers and macromolecular synthesis; Oxidation control mechanisms in complex food and beverage matrices; and Oxidative processes in humans and animals.