The Astronomy Department and the Astrophysics group of the Physics Department will host a Research Experiences for Undergraduates program in Astronomy and Astrophysics for several students for the ten weeks from May 27th to August 2nd, 20234. Applications received by Feb 15th will receive full consideration. By agreement among NSF supported REU Astronomy programs, notification of acceptance will be no earlier than March 1st. Click here for application information.

​

About the program

Participants will work in Madison with researchers in the Astronomy Department and the Astrophysics group of the Physics Department. Projects may include work in the following areas:

• astrophysical detectors
• data analysis in cosmology
• X-ray astrophysics
• neutrino astrophysics, including IceCube
• neutron stars, white dwarfs, and black holes
• observational stellar astronomy
• star formation
• observational interstellar medium
• extragalactic astronomy
• theoretical work in galactic dynamics
• theoretical neutrino astrophysics
• theoretical work in the chemistry and dynamics of interstellar matter astro-chemistry

​

Facilities include the 3.5m WIYN optical telescope, the 11m SALT telescope, and the Northern Extended Millimeter Array; some projects may involve observing with or working with data from these facilities. Participants will not be able to visit our large South Polar neutrino detector (Amanda/IceCube), but can work with its observations. Students can also work with data from Antarctic balloon-based cosmic microwave background experiments, rocket-borne X-ray detectors, Spitzer infrared observations of the Galactic plane, and the Wisconsin H-alpha Mapper. The program includes a directed research project, an engaging weekly lecture series, organized weekend field trips, and other less structured social events – perhaps Summerfest in Milwaukee. Students will also be encouraged to participate in the successful (and fun!) NSF/Wisconsin outreach program Universe in the Park.

​

Our REU program includes a stipend and food allowance of $6,800, as well as reasonable travel expenses to/from Madison. Students will be housed with those participating in other summer research programs. They will be invited to participate in several interdisciplinary programs including discussions on scientific ethics, and a university-wide welcome and orientation. They will have access to library and campus recreational facilities, such as sailing on Lake Mendota.

• Currently, participants must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S.  
• We highly value diversity among our participants; women, members of under-represented minorities, and students from small colleges are all encouraged to apply.