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

2008 REU participants in Washington, D.C.

Overview
The Molecular & Cellular Bioengineering REU program focuses on the investigation of fundamental bioengineering questions using techniques that elucidate the roles of elemental participants. The University of Maryland, and specifically the new Fischell Department of Bioengineering, is engaged in a number of bioengineering research activities that bring together the University's traditional strength in engineering with recent advances in biological sciences as well as collaborations with surrounding national laboratories, including the NIH, NIST, and FDA. As a result, major research initiatives are underway in topics including bio-microelectromechanical systems, biomechanics, biomolecular engineering, cardiovascular mechanics, cellular and metabolic engineering, drug delivery, biomedical imaging, nanobiotechnology, neuroengineering, systems biology, and tissue engineering.  Reflecting the research focus of this REU site, faculty members will be drawn from the Fischell Department of Bioengineering, the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, the Department of Materials Science and Engineering as well as the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute.

Our REU program will focus on increasing the students' technical skills, critical thinking abilities, and presentation capabilities. REU scholars will work with full-time faculty, visiting scientists, post-doctoral research associates, graduate students, and other undergraduate students on research that promises to lead to important new discoveries and technologies. They will be exposed to state-of-the-art research, multidisciplinary research laboratories, research group meetings, and scientists/engineers from local industry and nearby research institutions (NIH, NIST, USDA, FDA, NRL). In addition, students will participate in non-technical seminars aimed at demystifying the graduate school process. Topics will include: "graduate studies in engineering and preparation for graduate student life"; and "choosing a career path". Also, in order to foster the connection between university research and industry, two industrial field trips per summer session will be provided to nearby biotechnology companies.

Principal Goals of the Molecular & Cellular Bioengineering REU Site at the University of Maryland

1. To introduce a group of students to a diversified research program in molecular and cellular bioengineering
2. To promote team-based and cross-disciplinary research within this field; and
3. To expand the students’ knowledge of emerging technologies and trends, preparing them for graduate studies or a professional career.

2009 Program Details

• Applications to the 2009 REU Program will be accepted from January 16, 2009 through March 6, 2009
• The REU Program will take place from June 1 to August 7
• Participants will receive a $4000 stipend, up to $750 for travel expenses, and housing in furnished on-campus housing

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

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.