Developing and implementing a successful research experience for undergraduates program: a roadmap designed by the Engineering Research Center for Particle Science and Technology

Abstract

Engineers recognize the importance of providing undergraduates with multidisciplinary research experiences as part of an engineering curriculum. The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports this endeavour through the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program. The NSF Engineering Research Center for Particle Science and Technology (ERC) at the University of Florida (UF) is committed to providing UF undergraduates with research opportunities, providing experiences to 350 students. The Center extended this program to non-UF students through the NSF REU program. Program goals include providing interdisciplinary laboratory experiences to undergraduates, improving student competence in a laboratory, and increasing the participation of women and minorities in engineering. The ERC has provided 30 students with a 10-week program for the past three years through the REU program and has developed a roadmap that can serve as a model to other institutions that would like to offer a similar program. This paper describes the program, from project selection, recruiting and logistics, to program management.