About the program
The Biomimetic MicroElectronic Systems Engineering Research Center (BMES ERC) offers a summer program for undergraduate students funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The program is held in Los Angeles, CA at the University of Southern California. This program allows students to contribute to the development of novel biomimetic microelectronic systems based on fundamental principles of biology.
The BMES ERC invites talented undergraduates to participate in active research projects and work alongside our world-renowned researchers and students.
This is an 6-week program from June 27 – August 5, 2011. NOTE: THE APPLICATION PROCESS FOR THE REU PROGRAM IS NOW CLOSED FOR THE SUMMER OF 2011
Program Requirements:
Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing as of June 2011, majoring in engineering (BME, EE, ME, CHE) or related sciences. Students who have received their bachelor’s degrees are not eligible.
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Open only to non-USC students.
The BMES ERC is a strong advocate of diversity and actively supports NSF’s mission to increase the diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce by including all members of society, regardless of race, ethnicity, or gender, in all aspects of the centers' activities. The BMES ERC strongly encourages applications from women, African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders, and persons with disabilities.
Students will receive:
A stipend for the 6-week program
Personal mentoring by USC researchers and graduate students
Valuable research experience in world-renowned academic laboratories
Curriculum:
In addition to research experience, the REU program includes interactive coursework and activities which include:
Laboratory safety
Research skills including lab notebook techniques
Oral and written science and engineering communication skills
Ethics in science and engineering
BMES ERC faculty/graduate student seminars
Tours of the USC campus and BMES ERC laboratories
Visits to Caltech and industry partners
Resume workshop
Graduate/Medical school application workshop
Fellowships workshop
Summer Science Day at Murchison Elementary School
Final presentation of research to fellow REU students, mentors, and BMES ERC faculty and staff
Interaction with the Integrated Media Systems Center (IMSC) ERC
Social and cultural activities
A full-time Program Coordinator will be in communication with each REU student throughout the summer to assist and supervise with logistics, scheduling, etc. The coordinator will perform regular visits to the research labs and maintain a dialogue with designated graduate students mentors.
Applications and questions regarding the REU program should be directed to Diana Sabogal, Assistant Director of Education, Outreach and Diversity Programs. Please email her at dsabogal@usc.edu.
