Research Experience for Undergraduates

In many traditional mathematics programs, math majors learn the discipline through lecture, homework, and test. This is a proven and sound method of learning the basics, but provides little insight into or motivation for the most interesting aspects of mathematics and computation -- doing original research. Furthermore, as documented in the SIAM Mathematics in Industry report, working on problems that are not always well described in mathematical terms helps develop skills that are essential in non-academic work environments, where the ability to formulate a problem in mathematical terms is extremely valuable.

Finally, research conducted in a team environment fosters collaborative work experiences that many students enjoy and which they will use later when working on interdisciplinary teams.

Research experiences for undergraduates can provide non-traditional opportunities in original research and collaborative problem-solving that provide insight into how mathematicians work. Check out these programs, which focus on research experiences for undergraduates:

NSF's Research Experiences for Undergraduates Program (REU)

The site features information for students interested in identifying research opportunities and for faculty interested in obtaining support for undergraduate research students through either an REU Supplement or REU site proposal from the National Science Foundation. Learn more about the REU program.

The NC State Math Department REU In Modeling and Industrial Mathematics

This includes summer programs for rising college seniors. Participants will be selected on the basis of demonstrated mathematical creativity, motivation, and good work habits as well as meeting other requirements, as determined from the application materials and recommendation letters. The NSF and the NSA provide generous funding and support for this REU program. Learn more about the DRUMS program.

SIAM-Simons Undergraduate Summer Research Program

This summer program takes place at five sites across the United States each year. One faculty mentor and two students at each site will work together as participants learn how to conduct scientific research, effectively communicate mathematics and computational science principles, and gain an improved understanding of how they can pursue a career in applied mathematics and computational science. Learn more about the SIAM-Simons Undergraduate Summer Research Program.