SMARC Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program
The Synthetic biology Manufacturing of Advanced materials Research Center (SMARC) offers an interdisciplinary research experience that gives current students hands-on experience in a WashU research lab.
Summer 2024 Program
Past Students
About the Program
We will provide the support, training, and experience students need to prepare for careers in the exciting fields of synthetic biology and biomanufacturing.
Participants in these REU projects will:
- Gain hands-on research experience in cutting-edge areas of synthetic biology and material science, essential for future careers in STEM.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through active participation in research design and implementation.
- Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing their communication and teamwork skills.
- Receive mentorship from leading researchers in the field, fostering professional development and networking opportunities.
- Contribute to the broader goal of creating sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, aligning with national and global environmental objectives.
Training Activities
Summer
- Move in to on-campus housing May 26.
- Attend orientation on May 28.
- Complete a summer program between May 28 and August 2. Over the summer you will:
- Receive a $6,500 paid summer internship stipend with free on-campus housing
- Work on your research project in your chosen WashU lab Monday through Friday
- Participate in weekly programming
End of Summer Presentation
- Summer presentations and celebration of the research work from the summer. Participants will:
- Meet with staff to discuss progress on projects.
- Spend about 2-3 hours per week outside of the regular meeting time working on the presentation.
Benefits
- $6,500 Stipend
- $500 Travel reimbursement to and from the program
- $1,000 Conference costs and travel to present your research
- On-campus housing for the summer
- Free St. Louis public transportation pass
- Professional development
- Hands-on work experience
Who you are
- Undergraduate students
- Innovative
- Creative
- Self-motivated
- Good communication skills
- Adaptable
- Dedicated
REU Research Projects:
- Marcus Foston Lab – CNC Protein Nanocomposites: This REU project focuses on the synthesis and analysis of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) protein nanocomposites. By manipulating CNC orientations using magnetic and electronic fields, we aim to enhance their mechanical properties. The participating undergraduate will gain experience in composite analysis, mechanical testing, and imaging, offering a unique multidisciplinary perspective in engineering.
- Guy Genin Lab – Nano-to-Continuum Modeling: Here, the REU project involves developing mathematical models to optimize the mechanical properties of CNC-based protein nanocomposites. The undergraduate will engage in analytical and computational modeling, utilizing micromechanics and homogenization theory. This work is pivotal in translating nanoscale properties to improve macroscopic strength and toughness in sustainable composites.
- Fuzhong Zhang Lab – Recombinant Proteins for Nanocomposites: The focus in the Zhang Lab is on engineering microbes to produce advanced materials. The REU project will center on using synthetic biology to develop recombinant proteins for CNC-based nanocomposites. The student will be immersed in synthetic biology techniques, microbial cell culture, biomaterials processing, and characterization, contributing to the production and purification of hybrid proteins.