Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site

Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland

Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Food and Drug Administration

We are no longer accepting applications to the 2012 REU Program. Thank you for your interest.

Overview

The Molecular & Cellular Bioengineering REU program focuses on fundamental bioengineering questions using techniques that elucidate the roles of elemental participants. The Fischell Department of Bioengineering at the University of Maryland has joined with the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories in Center for Devices and Radiological Health at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to provide undergraduate student researchers an exciting opportunity to be involved in the development of biomedical devices at the research, development, and evaluation stages. Major research initiatives are underway in topics including biomicroelectromechanical systems, biomechanics, biomolecular engineering, cardiovascular mechanics, cellular and metabolic engineering, drug delivery, biomedical imaging, nanobiotechnology, neuroengineering, systems biology, and tissue engineering.

Our REU program will focus on the engagement of undergraduate researchers in bioengineering research activities both at UMD and FDA. While UMD will lead this REU Site, participating undergraduates will be involved in research as well as technical seminars at both UMD and FDA laboratories. The major objectives of this interaction are to focus on recruitment of undergraduates from institutions with modest levels of bioengineering research, introduce molecular and cellular bioengineering concepts, promote collaborative research, and introduce emerging technologies and trends. The successful completion of these objectives will create an exciting and engaging atmosphere surrounding bioengineering research for the undergraduate REU students, so as to increase student participation in advanced research activities.

Read more about our students' and mentors' personal experiences in the program »

Objectives

The objective of the Molecular & Cellular Bioengineering REU site is to introduce undergraduates with engineering and science backgrounds to a diverse research environment involving bioengineering at the molecular and cellular level.  Our principal goals are:

• To focus on the recruitment and selection of undergraduates from institutions with modest levels of molecular and cellular bioengineering research;
• To introduce this group of students to a program in molecular and cellular bioengineering that focuses upon research, development, and evaluation;
• To promote team-based and cross-disciplinary research within this field; and
• To expand the students’ knowledge of emerging technologies and trends, preparing them for graduate studies or a professional career.

2012 Program Details

• Applications to the 2012 Molecular & Cellular Bioengineering REU Program will be accepted through 5:00 p.m. EST, March 8, 2012.
• The REU Program will take place from May 29, 2012 to August 3, 2012
• Participants will receive a $4000 stipend, up to $500 for travel expenses, and housing in furnished on-campus apartments

Participating Faculty »
View the Project Descriptions »
How To Apply »
Contact Information »

2007 REU participants in Baltimore. Left to right: Professor Fisher, Grad Student Brendan Casey, Brian Freeman, Stephen Csernica, Robert Allen, Jake Mitchell, Katherine Speichinger, Da-Tren Chou, Maykong Leepalao, Kristin Gilida, and Jill LeBlanc.