Summer 2025: 8-week Research Experience at UC Irvine, UC Davis or the University of Michigan
Application Due Date: January 19, 2025
Overview: The 4C-HBCU Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Readying next-generation Innovators, Scientists, and Engineers (RISE), is a summer opportunity for undergraduate students at our partner HBCUs — Elizabeth City State University, Johnson B. Smith University, and Norfolk State University. Students will gain valuable training in the center’s research on interdisciplinary sustainable technologies in addition to building their professional network with the 12 institutions and 2 national laboratories who participate in 4C. We are looking for enthusiastic undergraduate students that have a strong academic background in science and engineering and demonstrate a genuine interest in research.
The REU will serve students interested in chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science, or equivalent fields. Participants will engage in original research guided by faculty mentors at the University of California (UC) Irvine, UC Davis, and the University of Michigan and attend the 2025 in-person All Hands Meeting to present their work. Throughout their time at their mentoring institution, students will attend presentations, workshops, and seminars related to career planning, industry, and applying to graduate school.
REU participants must commit to the entire program 8-week period to be eligible. During this time, the participants will be supported by a weekly stipend ($700/week). Other program benefits include housing, travel allowance, and access to research facilities.
Eligibility:
- Undergraduate student at Elizabeth City State University, Johnson B. Smith University, or Norfolk State University
- Majoring in chemistry, engineering/ technology, or related field
- Graduating no earlier than December 2025
REU Dates:
- UC Irvine: June 18 – Aug 13, 2025
- UC Davis: June 15 – Aug 8, 2025
- University of Michigan: May 25 – July 19, 2025
Application Components:
- Online application form including three personal statement questions:
- Briefly share why you are interested in a summer research experience, the research you are most interested in, and what you might be interested in doing after you receive your undergraduate degree. (~150-200 words)
- Briefly describe any previous research experience or relevant class assignment/project (note no research experience is required to apply and be accepted to this program). Include the name of your research mentor, if applicable. (~150-200 words)
- Please share your academic extracurricular activities and why you are a good candidate for this opportunity. (~150-200 words)
- One letter of recommendation from a faculty member
- Unofficial transcript(s)
