The MSU Extreme Biofilms Research Experience for Undergraduates (EB-REU) is a 10-week summer program designed to engage participants in a research project aimed at discovering new ways to grow, understand, and utilize extremophilic biofilms for human benefit. Our undergraduate scientists will gain a direct appreciation for the unique physical, physiological, and genetic adaptations of biofilm-forming microorganisms found in numerous extreme systems.

In addition to helping our students understand how scientists think and solve problems, EB-REU students will participate in innovative technical and professional development activities, helping enhance their leadership, communication, and professional skills. Participants will practice these skills by networking at a local summer science and technology meeting and giving a poster presentation at an end-of-program symposium. The physical location of the MSU campus and expertise of our scientists also provide a unique opportunity for participants to study extreme biofilms in-person. During the second week of the program, students will see extreme biofilms firsthand by visiting different geothermal basins in Yellowstone National Park on a 3-day field visit.

The 10-week EB-REU program provides participants with a $7000 stipend, and covers the costs of on-campus housing, plus partial support for food and travel to the REU site. No prior research experience or formal coursework in biofilm science or bioengineering is required to apply.

• In accordance with NSF guidelines, all applicants must be United States citizens or a permanent resident of the United States.
• Applicants should have a strong interest in pursuing a research career in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline.
• Must have successfully completed at least one academic year of an undergraduate program and be classified as an undergraduate student prior to and during program participation.
• Participants must be available full-time for the duration of the program from start to finish. Any vacations, summer coursework, or other summer employment needs to take place outside the program time frame.
• Students majoring in microbiology, engineering, environmental sciences, ecology, biochemistry, biology, computer science, mathematics, or a related STEM discipline. No minimum GPA requirement.
• All students will live on the MSU campus, grouped together as a research cohort, in housing provided by the EB-REU program.
• Students from disadvantaged backgrounds and/or from non-research-intensive universities, tribal colleges, and community colleges.
• Students who are first-generation college attenders, non-traditional, veterans, and disabled students.
• Students from groups who are historically underrepresented STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) including students who are Indigenous, Hispanic/Latinx, Black, Pacific Islander, and/or LGBTQIA+ are strongly encouraged to apply.