The Nebraska Summer Research Program is committed to quality mentoring and research projects. We limit our summer offerings to active research labs and projects led by faculty who have established themselves as excellent undergraduate student mentors. Since each program has several Summer Research Program scholars, you'll have peers and colleagues in which to share your educational experience with.
2013 Programs
Other Research Opportunities at the University of Nebraska
University Medical Center
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has research projects ranging from basic molecular biology to the study of human disease in clinical settings.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has research projects ranging from basic molecular biology to the study of human disease in clinical settings.
UNMC Eppley Cancer & Allied Diseases Research Summer Program
Students in the Summer Undergraduate Fellowship Program at the Eppley Cancer Research Institute though UNMC do hands-on cancer research. Students learn research techniques and concepts and work with professional researchers.
Students in the Summer Undergraduate Fellowship Program at the Eppley Cancer Research Institute though UNMC do hands-on cancer research. Students learn research techniques and concepts and work with professional researchers.
SROP: Integrated Development of Bioenergy Systems
Study Bioenergy!
The research of today for the solutions of tomorrow
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: August 7, 2013
Stipend: $5,000
Contact Info
Dr. Paul BlumProfessor of Biological Sciences
402-472-2769
pblum1@unl.edu
SROP Website
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Any Engineering
- Most Science
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
Applicants to this program should also have:
- Minimum GPA 3.0
- Sophomore standing or higher
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 15, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Weekly Wednesday seminar lunches
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The School of Biological Sciences' Microbiology Initiative and Center for Plant Sciences Innovation administers the Integrated Development of Bioenergy Systems summer program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Faculty mentors involved in the program are diverse in their research with laboratories covering a wide spectrum of bioenergy research topics such as the study of non-food crops for biomass production, metabolic engineering of oilseed biosynthesis, green algae as liquid biofuel production systems, microbial carbon sequestration, biochemical pathways of lignocellulose conversion, and system engineering of microorganisms for biomass conversion.
Summer scholars in our program are matched with a faculty mentor and participate actively in the design and implementation of a ten-week research project. Students explore the frontiers of knowledge and learn cutting-edge techniques, while having access to state-of-the-art instrumentation in individual labs as well as in the core facilities.
A weekly seminar series will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas with other students, researchers, and faculty. The program also offers a number of social and recreational activities as well as several seminars about graduate school. We expect that the diversity of experiences will encourage students to pursue scientific careers in sustainable energy systems, productively contributing to solving society's needs.
2013 Mentors and Projects
School of Biological Sciences
Co-regulated Gene Networks
The Atkin lab studies gene regulatory mechanisms using yeast as a model with the goal of understanding how genes are co-regulated and the impact that regulation has on cell physiology.
School of Biological Sciences
Energy Metabolism in Thermophiles, Algae and Fungi
Diverse microbes are being engineered to improve synthesis of renewable energy and chemical feedstocks such as cellulosic ethanol, biohydrogen, and chemical intermediates.
Biochemistry
Metabolic Engineering of Methane Production by Anaerobic Archaea
Metabolic engineering of methane production by anaerobic archaea Methanogenic archaea (methanogens) in the environment produce 2 gigatons of methane annually. The Buan lab is focused on engineering methanogens by manipulating the electron transport system to produce organisms that are suitable for industrial-scale production of methane as a renewable energy source.
Biochemistry
Metabolic Engineering and Functional Genomics of Oilseed Crops for Improved Oil Content and Composition
We conduct research to modify lipid metabolism in oilseeds and algae to increase the oil content and improve fatty acid composition of vegetable oils for biofuels and biobased lubricants. The research not only is aimed at outcomes to address world energy needs but also at providing basic insights into plant and algal fatty acid biosynthetic and metabolic pathways and their regulation.
School of Biological Sciences
Algae as Model Systems for Oil Biosynthesis and Biofuel Production
We are interested in improving, by genetic, genomic and biochemical means, the capability of algae to accumulate oil in order to create a reliable and sustainable source for the production of next generation biofuels. Undergraduate students participating in these projects will have the opportunity to learn a variety of biochemistry, molecular biology and bioinformatics techniques; participate in the design, execution and interpretation of experiments; and contribute to publication in scientific journals.
Plant Pathology
Chemical Signaling in Fungi as a Potential Source for Biofuels
Fungi utilize an array of chemical signals to coordinate growth, morphogenesis, and development. Because these signals are related to biofuels and other high-value compounds (e.g., butanol, farnesol), we are interested in learning how they are synthesized and in understanding their mechanisms of action. Current projects will focus on the use of functional genomic screens.
Food Science and Technology
Probiotics and Co-aggregation Systems
Current research is focused on physiological and genetic analyses of carbohydrate metabolism by lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria used as starter cultures and as probiotics. We are particularly interested in how these bacteria metabolize prebiotic sugars and are using functional genomics analyses to identify relevant pathways.
Civil Engineering
Anaerobic Digestion
We are interested in developing and optimizing anaerobic digesters to convert solid and liquid wastes to methane gas and other value added products. Students will receive interdisciplinary training in environmental engineering and environmental microbiology.
Center for Plant Science Innovation Agronomy and Horticulture
Organelle Adaptation for Increased Cellular Bioenergetics
Developing algae for biofuels will place extreme energy demands on the cell, requiring increased efficiency and energy output from the mitochondria and chloroplasts. We are interested in evaluating the adaptive changes in mitochondria and chloroplasts to meet the bioenergetic needs of oleaginous algae.
School of Biological Sciences
Physiological Aspects of Quorum Sensing in Eukaryotes
Our lab studies bacterial, fungal, and algal systems. Active areas of research include: fungal dimorphism in Candida albicans and Ceratocystis ulmi; farnesol as a quorum sensing molecule (QSM) produced by C. albicans; farnesol's mode of action as a QSM and as a virulence factor; anaerobic growth of C. albicans; urea metabolism in C. albicans and other fungi; biotinylated histones in C. albicans; chlamydospore formation in C. albicans; high cell density QSMs from diatoms and other algae; detergent resistance in algae; and microbial ecology of alkaline lakes in Western Nebraska.
School of Biological Sciences
Lipid biology, biochemistry and molecular biology of algae
William B. Allington Distinguished Professor of Plant Pathology
Pathogens of Algae
Research in the Van Etten laboratory focuses on the isolation and characterization of large (encode more than 400 proteins) icosahedral, dsDNA-containing, plaque-forming viruses that infect certain unicellular, eukaryotic chlorella-like green algae. These viruses are ubiquitous in fresh water from all over the world. In addition to being pathogens, the algal viruses are a source of elements (e.g., promoters) for genetically modifying algae for biofuels.
School of Biological Sciences
Rock and the Role of Microorganisms in the Environment
Microorganisms are capable of utilizing a diversity of energy sources in the environment as such their metabolism has contributed to the production of biofuels and the generation of electricity. Research in the Weber laboratory assesses and seeks to understand how these organisms take advantage of these energy sources and influence carbon, nitrogen, iron, and uranium cycling in aquatic, soil, and sedimentary environments.
Biochemistry
The Role of the CO2-concentrating Mechanism in Photosynthesis-driven Lipid Biosynthesis in Algae
The CO2-concentating mechanism (CCM) is essential for photosynthesis-dependent growth of most algae. Enhancement of this mechanism through genetic engineering of algae used for algal biofuel production may, in the long-term, have significant practical application. Studies of the CCM in the Weeks laboratory have lead to the discovery of a number of the key components of the CCM in the model alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The focus of the project to be conducted by a student will be to attempt overproduction of the HLA3 bicarbonate transporter to determine if there is enhancement of CO2 uptake, algal growth and lipid synthesis. This project will provide the student with experience in recombinant DNA technology, biochemistry, molecular genetics, and cell physiology. In addition, the student will have an opportunity to work with the newly developed TALEN system for targeted gene knockout and gene replacement. Starting materials exist for all of the experiments involved in this project and its completion should require no more than eight weeks.
School of Biological Sciences
RNA Silencing in Plants
RNA silencing is a process triggered by 21-24 nucleotide RNAs to repress gene expression. The Yu lab is interested in understanding the mechanisms governing RNA silencing and development of RNA silencing based technologies that can be used to improve crop traits.
SROP: Undergraduate Research Opportunities in Biomedical Devices
Design and innovate with novel biomedical device technologies!
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: August 7, 2013
Stipend: $4,500
Contact Info
Dr. Carl NelsonAssociate Professor of Mechanical Engineering
402-472-4128
cnelson5@unl.edu
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Any Engineering
- Physics
- Biological Sciences
- Most other science majors
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
This program encourages applications from students with junior or senior standing.
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 15, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The Biomedical Engineering SROP is designed to provide independent research experience for undergraduate students, broaden participant knowledge of opportunities in academia, industry and national laboratories, and introduce participants to interdisciplinary research in biomedical devices.
The goal of every medical practitioner is to improve quality of life for patients. Biomedical technology and devices are instrumental in achieving this. The primary focus in each summer research project is biomedical devices designed to enhance medical care through science and engineering, with emphasis in three areas: (1) devices for surgical intervention, (2) devices for diagnostics, and (3) devices for implantation.
All projects are designed to be completed during the 10 week program and are a part of a faculty mentor's current research. This allows the student to be involved in many aspects of research, including design, analysis, simulation, and implementation of a biomedical device.
Students are also extensively involved in lab activities, such as weekly lab meetings. Research results are presented during lab meetings throughout the summer and at the end-of-summer in the Summer Research Symposium poster session. Lab members, especially graduate students and postdoctoral associates, are active with summer program research.
2013 Mentors and Projects
Biological Systems Engineering
Real-Time Tendon Injury Diagnosis via Ultrasound Elastography
Perform design and simulation duties and will assist in signal analysis. Learn and apply principles of ultrasound imaging, statistical classification techniques, and design methodology, along with somewhat lighter coverage in anatomy/physiology and computer science.Read more about this project
Mechanical Engineering
Miniature Robots for Surgery
Create image-guided in vivo mini-robots that enable many abdominal surgeries to be converted to the less invasive natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery approach.Read more about this project
Mechanical Engineering
Design of a Percutaneous Aortic Valve
Investigate the effects of leaflet geometry on performance of a new design of a percutaneous prosthesis.Read more about this project
Mechanical Engineering/Surgery
Measuring Biomaterial Properties
Develop specialized methods for obtaining material properties data from soft biological materials to enable more complete understanding of tissues in order to correctly model their interactions with other fluids or structures.Read more about this project
Mechanical Engineering/Surgery
Robotic Technology for Single-Incision-Constrained Workspace
Develop new robotic tools to increase functionality in medical interventions while respecting the associated surgical workspace constraints.Read more about this project
Dmitry Oleynikov, Ph.D.
Surgery
Multifunctional Tools for Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES)
Investigate the extent to which new robotic device technology for NOTES can embody the needed dexterity and stability for performing incisionless surgery.Read more about this project
Biological Systems Engineering
Mouse Head Magnetic Resonance Elastography Actuator
Implement a novel actuation technique will and test the technique using a rotating nose cone to house a mouse brain.Read more about this project
Biological Systems Engineering
Patterning Hydrogels by Fiber-Templating for Cardiac Applications
Develop methods to align multiple layers of fibers within hydrogel for use in tissue engineering, and determine the maximum number of conduits that will not negatively affect overall bulk properties of the hydrogel.Read more about this project
MECHANICAL AND MATERIALS ENGINEERING
Implantable Biometrics
Researching methods for implanting in vivo sensors and actuators in a manner that is intuitive and non-invasive to the host. Study both the active and passive biomechanics of the implant region and its physiological response to hosting an embedded device long-term.Read more about this project
REU in Chemistry
We're engaged in cutting-edge research on the catalysts, drugs, nanomaterials, and sensors of the FUTURE!
Join our team and we'll make HISTORY!
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: August 7, 2013
Stipend: $5,000
Contact Info
Ms. Kerry VondrakRecruiting Staff Assistant
402-472-4453
kerry.vondrak@unl.edu
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Chemical Engineering
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
This program encourages applications from students with sophomore or junior standing and those planning to pursue an advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) upon completion of the bachelor's degree.
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 15, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The Chemistry SROP is focused on curiosity driven basic research. As such, the projects are specifically tailored to stimulate student curiosity by provoking students to ask "Why?" and "How?" about their research. Participants will progress from undergraduate textbook learning to discovering and solving challenging research problems during the 10-week program.
This SROP offers a wide range of topics, including: organic radicals, medical imaging agents, protein-DNA interactions, enzyme-assisted organic synthesis, catalytic nanoparticles, synthesis of algal quorum-sensing molecules, and drug-protein interactions. The faculty mentors bring strong records of commitment to one-on-one mentoring of undergraduates in their research laboratories, and each brings their own multidisciplinary approach, specific research objectives, and experimental methods.
Students will learn and experience a wide range of communication skills during SROP meetings, in mentor group meetings, career development seminars, lunch discussion groups, social activities, and visits to local industry. The program concludes with students presenting their research findings at a campus-wide poster symposium.
2013 Mentors and Projects
Stephen DiMagno, Ph.D.
Organic
Late stage introduction of fluorine into drug-like molecules
To prepare PET radiotracers, the student will learn how to synthesize and prepare them by fluorination reactions with the "cold" (19F) isotope. What are the challenges involving the synthesis of the radiotracers with the "hot" (18F) isotope?
Analytical and Bioanalytical
Biological Mass Spectrometry
To characterize complex covalent and noncovalent biochemical interactions, the student will learn how to amplify DNA, isolate proteins, or study protein glycosylation.
Organic
Quorum-sensing molecules
To control the growth of biofuel algae, the student will learn first how to identify and characterize quorum-sensing molecules and then how to synthesize analogs and test them. What factors control the quorum sensing and how to make the process more efficient?
Chemical Biology
Expanding the genetic code
To learn how protein structure determines its function, the student researcher will use the multidisciplinary tools of molecular biology and bioorganic chemistry to add chemically modified unnatural amino acids to the genetic code of a bacterium so it synthesizes protein molecules modified at specific and relevant locations.
Analytical and Bioanalytical
Rapid Analysis of Drug-Protein Interactions
To understand how drugs act on the body, the student will learn how to develop new analytical methods for studying the interaction between drugs and blood proteins. What are the driving forces for this interaction and how strong is it compared to a chemical bond?
Organic
Organic Radicals for Organic Magnets, Spin Labels, and MRI Contrast Agents
To prepare the spin labels, students will learn how to synthesize stable organic radicals. Free radicals are typically highly reactive, why then are some radicals such as nitroxides persistent and how to make them more stable?
Inorganic
Novel functional materials
To create materials with new properties for electronics, photonics, sensors, and energy storage, the student will synthesize new types of carbon nanotubes and modified graphene.
Chemical Biology
Tracking proteins in the cell
To allow monitoring of the precise spatial and temporal locations for proteins involved in cell motility, students will modify genes so they are specially labeled.
Inorganic
Nanocluster catalysts
To synthesize new catalysts for use in energy production and energy storage, students will prepare nanomaterials with designed shapes and composition.
REU in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Join our program and work with faculty and grad students to explore earth, air, and water!
Pending Funding
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: August 7, 2013
Stipend: $5,000
Contact Info
Dr. Mindi SearlsResearch Assistant Professor
402-472-6934
msearls2@unl.edu
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Astronomy
- Biology
- Civil Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Environmental Sciences/Studies
- Geosciences
- Meterology
- Natural Resource Sciences
- Physics
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
In this program, each project has unique prerequisites. See the Research and Mentors section for more details.
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 15, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The summer research program in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences is administered by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. The SROP was established in 2012.
Students work with faculty mentors and conduct cutting-edge research related to water resourcing; microbial community structures; predator-prey interactions and population scaling; paleoecological scaling; and surface faults. This research can be applied to real-world challenges in environmental sciences and prepare scholars for future endeavors studying the earth, air, and water. Individual projects are designed to be completed within the 10-week timeframe of the summer program.
The primary objective of our SROP is to support and develop summer scholars into independent researchers. As such, the format of the research activities is designed around the development of research skills, interaction with interdisciplinary research teams, and opportunities to present research findings.
2013 Mentors and Projects
REU in Applied Mathematics
Join our program and work with faculty and grad students on cutting-edge research problems in Applied Mathematics
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: July 26, 2013
Stipend: $4,000
Contact Info
Ms. Lori J. MuellerAdministrative Coordinator
402-472-4319
lmueller2@unl.edu
REU Website
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Mathematics
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
In this program, each project has unique prerequisites. See the Research and Mentors section for more details.
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 15, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The Nebraska REU in Applied Mathematics is administered by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Mathematics and is funded by the National Science Foundation. The REU site was established in 2002.
Our program strives to give students as full of a research experience as possible, including background reading and exercises in their subject; the skills needed on how to define a good problem, how to solve the problem and (in many projects) give rigorous proofs; and the tools for writing mathematics and giving a talk or presenting a poster. We also offer research, educational and social activities that cultivate an environment which emphasizes interaction and collaboration.
Summer scholars meet with their mentors almost every weekday. At the conclusion of the 8-week program, students present their research. Often the summer projects result in presentations at a national conferences and research publications. We believe that the participants leave the Nebraska REU Site with an appreciation for the methods of mathematical discovery and have a meaningful and rigorous educational experience.
In 2013 our projects will include Fractional Calculus, mentored by Professor Al Peterson, and Stability of a Nonlinear Wave Equation, mentored by Professors George Avalos and Daniel Toundykov.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Mathematics has a national reputation for excellence in education and mentorship. The department recently received the 2009 AMS Award for Exemplary Program or Achievement in a Mathematics Department, in recognition of their research mentoring for undergraduates.
2013 Mentors and Projects
REU: Training in Redox Biology
Join our program and work with faculty who impact fundamental issues of redox biology: aging, cancer, cardiovascular disease, Parkinson's disease and other major illnesses!
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: August 7, 2013
Stipend: $5,000
Contact Info
Ms. Hannah KahlerAdministrative Coordinator
402-472-3173
redox@unl.edu
REU Website
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Plant Pathology
- Biomedical Sciences
- Microbiology
- Biological Sciences
- Chemistry
- Other related fields
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 15, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The Redox Biology Center Summer REU Training Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was established in 2006 by the National Science Foundation to carry out independent research projects in redox biochemistry. Research areas range from molecular medicine to environmental biochemistry and plant biochemistry.
REU students participate in exciting projects at the cutting edge of research in redox biology. They formulate and test hypotheses, develop experimental problem-solving skills, and receive training in biochemical, biophysical and molecular biology techniques. Students are also exposed to a variety of instrumentation such as HPLC and FPLC systems, EPR spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy and microscopy which are located in the interdisciplinary Beadle Center.
Individual projects are designed to be completed within the ten-week time frame of the summer program. The projects generally fit into the larger context of the faculty advisor's research program.
Students are placed with a faculty mentor in whose lab the student's research project will be pursued and students are expected to participate fully in the life of the mentor's lab. There are informal meetings for all program participants which facilitate the exchange of information on the research being conducted. There are also weekly meetings in which various scientists describe the latest advances in their own research or career opportunities in biomedical or biotechnology fields. These events provide an opportunity to discuss areas of biochemistry/redox biology that are of particular interest and excitement.
The ten-week summer program is sponsored by the National Science Foundation and Department of Defense.
2013 Mentors and Projects
SROP: Undergraduate Summer Research Experience in Virology
Join faculty finding solutions to diseases of epidemic proportions including HIV/AIDS, Herpesvirus, Human Papilloma Virus, and Chlorellavirus Biology.
2013 Dates and Stipend
Start: June 3, 2013End: August 7, 2013
Stipend: $4,000
Contact Info
Ms. Pamela SnyderTraining Coordinator
402-472-6209
psnyder2@unl.edu
SROP Website
Who Should Apply
Related majors and areas
- Biology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
Eligibility
Participation in the Nebraska Summer Research Program is limited to students who meet the following criteria:- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Current undergraduate with at least one semester of coursework remaining before obtaining a bachelor's degree
This program gives preference to and encourages applications from students whose primary interest is exploring a career in biomedical research.
How to Apply
Steps and Required Items
To apply, follow these application steps to submit the following materials.Application Timeline
- Wed., Nov. 14, 2012 — Application opens
- Fri., Feb. 1, 2013 — Priority deadline
- Fri., Feb. 15, 2013 — Application deadline
- Fri., Mar. 1, 2013 — Decisions complete
Events and Benefits
Program Events
- Weekly mentor/mentee lunches
- Campus and department orientation
- Department seminars and presentations
- Professional development workshops (e.g., applying to graduate school, taking the GRE)
- Welcome picnic
- Day trip to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo
- Canoe and camping trip
- Research symposium
Benefits
- Competitive stipend
- Double-occupancy room and meal plan
- Travel expenses to and from Lincoln
- Campus parking and/or bus pass
- Full access to the Campus Recreation Center and campus library system
- Wireless internet access
Research and Mentors
The Nebraska Center for Virology research topics are challenging and meritorious exploring problems of epidemic proportions facing mankind including AIDS and HIV replication and pathogenesis, herpesvirus latency and cancer, human papilloma virus and cancers, and chlorellavirus biology. Our goals include designing novel vaccines and therapeutic strategies to block disease.
During the summer program, students work with our faculty alongside current graduate students and postdoctoral research associates in their labs where cutting-edge techniques and the latest instrumentation are used. Students have the opportunity to design and implement a tailor-made research project according to their interests. Students are also exposed to the research of others and have the opportunity to attend weekly lab meetings and seminars where new ideas are exchanged and explored.
This ten-week summer research experience is culminated in a research fair that will provide an opportunity for you to prepare and present a poster showcasing your research project findings and progress.
In addition, after receiving a bachelor's degree, students are encouraged to apply for graduate school fellowships through our federally funded National Institutes of Health Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award. This is a prestigious program offered at the Nebraska Center for Virology that selects and prepares individuals with exceptional potential and academic credentials for careers that will have a significant impact on the nation's biomedical research agenda.