Since 2003, Mote Marine Laboratory has been a host site for the National Science Foundation's Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program. The NSF REU Program offers research training experiences in estuarine science to 10 undergraduate students during a 10-week period between May and August. NSF REU participants are paired with Mote scientists and conduct mentored research projects related to their advisor's expertise.

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Students gain experience in science communication by presenting the results of their project in a manuscript-style research paper and orally at a laboratory-wide research symposium. Participants attend research seminars and workshops on career skills in science. Students may also have the opportunity to present their research findings at professional conferences.

• NSF’s goal is to broaden participation in research through the NSF REU program.  Individuals historically underrepresented in STEM are encouraged to apply, including: underrepresented minorities (African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians or Other Pacific Islanders), persons with disabilities, first-generation college students, women and veterans of the U.S. Armed Services.

To be eligible for the NSF REU Program, students must be:

• U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its territories
• Currently enrolled* in a degree program (full-time or part-time) leading to a baccalaureate degree.
• First-time NSF REU participants. If you have already completed an NSF REU internship, you will not be considered for the program.
• Available for the full duration of the program, from May 26 to August 3, 2024. For questions regarding scheduling conflicts, please see our FAQs page.
• *Students may NOT have already graduated at the time of participation in the NSF REU internship.
• In addition, applicants should possess a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher (on a 4-point scale), and make efforts to receive academic credit for participation in the NSF REU Program. However, these are NOT requirements to qualify for the program.
• No former research or internship experience necessary.