SMASH Engineering REU

Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site in Soft Materials for Applications in Sustainability and Healthcare Engineering (SMASH Engineering)

2026 UPDATE: We will not be offering the SMASH Engineering REU program in summer 2026. We remain hopeful that the proposal will be funded and that we will be able to offer the program again in future summers. The program information provided below is for reference only.

Program Details

• The SMASH Engineering REU site provides an immersive, full-time research experience for undergraduate students to develop their ability to advance materials-based solutions that help address engineering challenges, including:
  • creating a bright energy future
  • preserving the natural environment
  • providing water to the world’s population
  • developing affordable healthcare solutions
• Researchers will work with Notre Dame faculty and graduate students in research labs affiliated with the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering program, and Bioengineering program.

Program Highlights

• All REU participants will receive a stipend of $5,400, plus lodging, meal allowance, and fully-funded travel
• End of summer research poster session
• Social and professional development opportunities focused on career discernment, effective research communication, and science and engineering entrepreneurship.

Who Should Apply

• This opportunity is ideal for highly-motivated undergraduate students from a variety of backgrounds, including those at colleges lacking expansive research opportunities.

Questions?

Contact Jennifer Pavlick at Jennifer.Pavlick.5@nd.edu.

*US citizenship or permanent residency is required for eligibility, per the National Science Foundation requirements.

**Funded by the National Science Foundation