MRSEC Young Researchers Program

The Center has partnered with the Searle Center for Teaching Excellence to offer NU freshmen and sophomores an opportunity to extend their learning outside of the classroom by engaging in meaningful research experiences. Freshman and sophomore students are selected to participate in the Science Research Workshop, a program which helps them learn how to approach a professor about joining his or her research group, and then guides the student through the process of writing a research proposal. These proposals are then evaluated, and the best are awarded funding for the summer. The selected students are invited to participate in the events of the REU summer program.

The Science Research Workshops include two main components, Science Cafes and Peer-facilitated Workshops.

Science Cafes are short talks given by a faculty member, in which they share their excitement about research and address a topic such as "The Grant Funding Process" or "Giving Successful Presentations."

Peer-facilitated Workshops follow the Science Cafes. Juniors and seniors with extensive research lab experience and training in facilitation lead these workshops, in which students are guided through the process of developing and writing a research proposal.

Through these programs students become part of the research community and begin to develop skills that will be crucial to their success as research scientists and engineers.

2011-2012 Calendar

October 7, 2011 - 4:30pm, Technological Institute, Room LR2
October 28, 2011 - 4:30pm, Technological Institute, Room LR2
November 18, 2011 - 4:30pm, Technological Institute, Room LR2