Summer Undergraduate Research Program at UW–Madison

Each summer, GLBRC hosts a group of undergraduate students to participate in the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, designed to immerse students in research. Mentors guide students throughout the research process, from designing their experiments to presenting their findings on a poster. Students participate in professional development activities, build references for graduate school, and explore research as a potential career.

GLBRC's REU program is run in partnership with the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Department of Chemistry, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and the Wisconsin Institute for Science Education and Community Engagement (WISCIENCE). Read the descriptions below to learn more about the program topic areas.

Program Topic Areas

The Cellular and Molecular Biology of Stress Summer Research Program

Environmental stressors, including both biotic (originating from living organisms such as pathogens) and abiotic (arising from non-living factors such as nutrient availability), constantly shape the adaptive strategies of all life forms. By actively participating in original research, students will explore the intricate mechanisms by which organisms respond and adapt to environmental challenges. Faculty mentors in the program study a variety of biotic and abiotic stresses in diverse organisms, from unicellular microbes to multicellular plants and animals. All the labs are interested in how stresses are detected by cells and organisms, how stress signals are transmitted within cells and organisms, and how targets of the stress signal activate cellular and molecular processes that allow cells and organisms to survive the stress.

For more information, eligibility requirements, and application instructions, visit the official program page.

REU in the Chemistry of Materials for Sustainability

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Departments of Chemistry and Chemical and Biological Engineering, through support from the National Science Foundation, host an annual Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program focused on the Chemistry of Materials for Sustainability. Students participating in this program conduct research on the development of new materials for renewable energy, green chemical production, and new technologies for plastics recycling.

For more information, eligibility requirements, and application instructions, visit the official program page.

Location
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Timing/Duration
May 27 - August 2, 2025
Who Should Apply
Students who are African American, Hispanic, Native American, Southeast Asian, Native Alaskan or Native Pacific Islander or who are from low-income homes or who are the first in their family to attend college or who attend small liberal arts institutions without broad research facilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Stipend
$7,000. Housing and round-trip travel to Madison, WI covered.
Application Deadline