SUMMER RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
FOR UNDERGRADUATES (REU)
IN MICROBIOLOGY

2009 REU students

2009 REU participants

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To read a story about the 2008 REU, visit the Carver College of Medicine's web site at: http://www.medicine.uiowa.edu/CCOM/news/releases/microbiology_summer_prog.html

Overview of the Program

  • Participants conduct full-time, hands-on research in microbiology, microbial genetics, or molecular biology. You can see a list of potential mentors and projects by clicking here.
  • Enrichment activities include weekly seminars and workshops on graduate school and career opportunities. Schedules from past years: 2007, 2008, 2009.
  • At the end of the summer, students write a research report and present their findings in a campus-wide poster session.
  • Program lasts for 10 weeks (May 24-July 30, 2010).*
  • Participants receive a $4600 stipend plus a $500 food allowance.*
  • Free housing is provided in the Mayflower dormitory.
  • Travel costs are paid by the program.
  • Social activities include an introductory picnic, excursions, and an end-of-summer banquet.

*Pending renewal of our NSF REU grant

Eligibility

The program is intended for undergraduates who:

  • Have completed at least two years of college.
  • Will be returning for at least one year of undergraduate study before graduation.
  • Are majoring in a biological science.
  • Are interested in pursuing graduate school and a career in biological research.
  • Are United States citizens or permanent residents (hold a green card).
  • Have limited access to research opportunities at their home institution.
  • Prior research experience is NOT a requirement.

This program seeks to improve diversity in the biological sciences. Disabled students, minority students, and disadvantaged students (economically or first in family to attend college) are especially encouraged to apply.

Questions? Try our FAQ.

How to Apply

Your completed application consists of:

Send your materials to:


Summer Microbiology Undergraduate Research Program
Department of Microbiology
The University of Iowa
3-403 Bowen Science Building
Iowa City, IA 52242

Application deadline: February 15, 2010.

Goals of the Program

The REU in Microbiology at The University of Iowa seeks to foster the careers of the next generation of microbiologists. We do this by providing an intensive 10-week research experience for bright and ambitious undergraduates who are considering a PhD in microbiology or an allied discipline. We hope that this experience will encourage students to pursue a career in basic science and give them the skills they need to succeed in that career path. The focus of the program is a hands-on research project conducted under the guidance of faculty and graduate student mentors. A range of research projects will be available, including basic mechanisms of bacterial and viral gene expression, virus structure and assembly, biofilm formation, microbial development, and prokaryotic cell biology. Students will also attend lectures to broaden their understanding of microbiology and educate them about graduate school and career options.

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