Summer REU Opportunities
Dear Students and Faculty Research Advisors,
As many of you may know, it is that time of the year again when many institutions are accepting applications for summer research internships, a large number as part of the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF-REU) program. These internships typically run for 10 weeks in summer, during which students work closely with a scientific expert on a particular project, with results often presented at a subsequent conference. Stipends are usually on the order of $4000-$5000, and most travel expenses are covered. Applications are due as early as February 1st, depending on the program.
I strongly encourage all physics majors to consider an NSF-REU internship, even if you are only in your 2nd year. It’s the perfect chance to “try out” a field to see if you like it, gaining valuable research experience in a novel setting, and it looks good on graduate school applications! REUs are available in a wide variety of fields; a searchable list is provided here by the NSF:
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.jsp
Many of these positions are fairly competitive, so it’s wise to apply to more than one. Please consult each program’s web site for specific details, including application requirements. REUs for which I have seen direct announcements — a small subset of the full list — include the following:
- Physics REU, U. Washington-Seattle (deadline Feb 28)
- Solar & Space Physics REU, U. Colorado-Boulder (deadline Feb 1)
- Physics REU, College of Wooster (deadline Feb 28)
- Physics REU, U. Oklahoma (deadline Feb 5)
- Physics & Astronomy, U. Notre Dame (deadline Feb 17)
Thanks for your attention, and good luck!
Steven Gibson
