By Hazel Scott
|
July 09, 2024
By Hazel Scott/ASU
Nine undergraduate students from across the country and the United States territory
of Puerto Rico are participating in Alabama State University’s NSF-REU’s 10-week Summer
Undergraduate Research Training program, which ends July 25. The National Science
Foundation (NSF) funds ASU’s Research Experiences for the Undergraduates (REU) program.
The STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) students will conduct
hands-on scientific research projects under the tutorage of acclaimed ASU researchers.
“One of the goals of the REU program is to prepare undergraduates for a successful
transition into STEM graduate programs,” said Dr. Komal Vig, professor of biology
who serves as the principal investigator of ASU’s NSF-REU program. “We anticipate
that this exciting research experience will lead to the successful pursuit of graduate
degrees in STEM fields by this year’s participating students.”
Student participants receive exciting and stimulating experimental research training
experience in bioengineering, Embryology, cancer biology, nanobiotechnology, and other
fields of science. Specifically, students participate in scientific lecture seminars,
scientific writing and speaking; receive graduate and professional school guidance,
career opportunities in academia and industry; and participate in training workshops
and professional and developmental skills activities.
The group will visit the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, NASA Rocket and
Space Center in Huntsville, Auburn University, the CBD Farm in Opelika, and downtown
Montgomery’s Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.
Participants in the program were selected in a nationwide competition and represent
the following colleges/universities: Dillard University, Southern University and A&M
College, University of Alabama Birmingham, Milligan University, University of Puerto
Rico, Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, Dallas Community College, along with
two students from Alabama State University.
Each participant receives a $600 per week stipend, on-campus housing, and meal and
travel allowances during the 10 weeks.
“I’m very excited to provide this hands-on exciting research experience showcasing
ASU research capabilities to this group of enthusiastic students," Vig said.