The Vanderbilt Institute for Nanoscale Science and Engineering (VINSE) brings ten students each summer to campus to work closely with VINSE faculty on research projects in cutting edge areas of nanoscale science and engineering.  This summer program is funded by the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (NSF-REU) program.  

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Participation in the program provides students with a true interdisciplinary research experience in an environment where physicists, chemists, biologists, and all engineers collaboratively solve problems and create new scientific understanding. Weekly lunchtime meetings are held for all faculty and students that cover topics ranging from ethics and the responsible conduct of research to demystifying graduate school and how to present research findings.

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Each student works directly with VINSE faculty members and their research groups and has access to the VINSE laboratories, which are shared facilities available to all authorized users. Furthermore, the Vanderbilt campus is just one mile from downtown Nashville, which is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan mid-sized cities in the United States.

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PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Choose from over 30 projects available each year for 10 positions, giving increased flexibility to match student interests
• Receive a $7000 stipend, room and board, plus a $500 travel allowance to offset the cost of getting to Nashville
• Undergo informal training on scientific writing and giving oral presentations
• Participate in a field trip to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
• Participate in optional outreach opportunities with local high school students
• Enjoy social activities and a final banquet
• Participate in a poster competition to receive a travel award to attend a national professional meeting to present their work

• Students who are US Citizens or Permanent Residents majoring in science or engineering are eligible to apply to the REU program.
• Students from underrepresented groups and institutions are strongly encouraged to apply. Students are to be notified of their acceptance into the program by email by mid-March annually. Selections are primarily based on academic standing and faculty recommendations.