· 10-Week Summer Undergraduate Research Experience at the University of California, Merced · Focus areas - biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology, developmental biology, biomaterials, and bioengineering · I-BEST REU is open to all STEM majors I-BEST REU Site Overview: Transformative advances in bio-related fields require contributions from multidisciplinary teams and the REU Site at UC Merced has dedicated faculty with active, collaborative research programs in biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology, developmental biology, biomaterials, and bioengineering. Students will carry out research projects ranging from studying the mechanisms of circadian clocks and cancer cell migration to the design and characterization of novel biosensors, antibacterial hydrogels, and responsive drug delivery systems. In addition to the immersive research in multidisciplinary research teams, the program will provide hands-on training in various laboratory techniques; focused professional development including communication, graduate school preparation, and ethics/responsible conduct of research; career pathways sessions with professionals from industry; and community building events such as trips to nearby Yosemite. Students will discover how scientific, interdisciplinary research is conducted, and will have the opportunity to present the results of their summer experiences at scientific conferences. $7000 stipend, housing, and meals, as well as funds for post-program conference travel, will be provided. This work was supported with funding from: REU Site: Interdisciplinary Biological Engineering and Science Training (I-BEST) (NSF-DBI-2349757) NSF-CREST: Center for Cellular & Biomolecular Machines (UCM) (NSF-HRD-1547848, NSF-EES-2112675) Students are encouraged to apply early (rolling applications). We will begin the review of applications as they are received. Submit applications no later than 2/15/26 - but we will accept applications until all 10 spots are filled.
biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology, developmental biology, biomaterials, bioengineering, chemistry, mathematical sciences, computational sciences, life sciences, biological sciences, physics, engineering, materials research
Applicants must be full-time undergraduates who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents (NSF program requirements), with plans to continue as a student in fall.
