Application Information
The application system will open annually on November 15 and applications will be accepted through a priority deadline of February 15.
Eligibility
All applicants must:
Be enrolled in an undergraduate program entering, at minimum, their second year of undergraduate education and have at least one semester of coursework remaining at the time of the REU program
Be a US citizen or a permanent resident
Completion of first year chemistry is highly encouraged
Instructions
How to Apply
Application must be submitted using the Online Application Form including supporting documents. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Tiffany.Messer@uky.edu or tjbarzee@uky.edu
A complete application package will include:
A completed application form.
Resume
Rank top 3 project preferences. Projects can be found here.
Responses to three open responses questions addressing the following questions:
1) How would this research experience help you to meet your educational goals? (250 words)
2) Describe your previous experience and/or personal strengths that led to your interest in your preferred research project for this REU (250 words)
3) Explain your potential interest in working on a project in the Appalachian region (250 words).
Optional Demographic Survey
Unofficial copies of your Academic Transcript(s). If selected for the REU program, participants will be required to provide an official copy before the initiation of the REU.
Two Letters of Recommendation from Individuals who are able to comment on the applicant’s academic ability including faculty advisors at the student’s home institution or mentors from previous research activities. Letters must be sent by the recommenders to Tiffany.Messer@uky.edu and tjbarzee@uky.edu and have the subject line “REU: Student Name”. For example “REU: Janice Duncan”
Please upload all the required documents with the application form.
Letters of Recommendation
Recommenders are requested to include the applicant's name, how long they have known the applicant and in what capacity, and a ranking or evaluation of the applicant relative to their peer group. Please comment on overall research ability or potential, ability to work independently and with groups, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research. Recommendation letters must be submitted by February 15st.
Letters must be sent by the recommenders to Tiffany.Messer@uky.edu and tjbarzee@uky.edu and have the subject line “REU: Student Name”. For example “REU: Janice Duncan”
Selection Criteria
Selection for the REU Program will be based on:
Participant motivation to work on Appalachian focused projects as evidenced in the letters of recommendation and personal statements
Educational goals including plan to apply for graduate schools
Potential for this REU to provide enhancement beyond past research experiences
Emphasis will be placed on the students’ demonstrated project interest and REU demographic goals. The PIs retain the ability to override faculty preferences in order to ensure balance and diversity based on recruitment metrics and REU goals (60% limited research opportunities, 50% underrepresented in STEM fields, 40% first-generation college students from Appalachia)
Potential for impactful faculty mentor-student relationship