Robots in the Real World REU at Oregon State University
Opportunity Description:
The Robotics program at Oregon State University has offered summer research opportunities for eight years (with past support from the National Science Foundation under award 1359480, years 2014-2016, and award 1659746, years 2017-2019). Student participants have pursued projects in a variety of areas of robotics that deal with the real world; from remote marine sensing, to building and controlling legged robots, to picking up and manipulating objects, to managing swarms of robots, and to how we can incorporate robots into our daily lives. Exciting research is, however, only part of the story. The program wants students to leave excited about continuing to do research in robotics, and to give them the tools to successfully transition to graduate-level research, and to continue research at their home institutions. In particular, it provides a novel opportunity for students to design follow-on robotics research at their home institution, and to return to Oregon State during the academic year in order to use the robotics facilities here to conduct that research.
During the10-week summer program, students will work on specific research projects alongside graduate students and faculty, attend workshops to find out what graduate school and research is all about, learn how to apply for graduate student fellowships (such as the NSF GRFP), and enjoy the great Oregon outdoors through student-organized activities. There will be plenty of opportunities to socialize with both faculty, graduate student mentors, and other REU students on campus in a variety of areas. During the 10 weeks of the program, students will gain insight into the research process, and what it means to be a graduate student.
Following the program, students interested in applying for graduate fellowships and programs will continue to receive support and guidance. Funds are also available to help REU students travel to conferences and present their research.
All participants will receive a $6,000 stipend for the summer, plus a stipend for travel, housing, and food allowance. Space has been reserved in student summer scholar dorm housing for REU participants from out of town, for those who want to take advantage of it.
Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements:
Admission to the REU program is competitive and will be based on the applicant's academic preparation and potential to perform research in an area of robotics. The program asks all applicants to submit an academic transcript, answer questions about their areas of interest and experience outside of academics (such as leadership roles), and the names of two people willing to write letters of reference in support of the application. The program is particularly interested in applicants with diverse backgrounds, such as an interest in psychology, mathematics, biology, or art, because robotics touches on all of these fields.
The program is also specifically looking for students who have a demonstrated passion for outreach, diversity and engagement.
Students from all institutions, including Oregon State University, are welcome to apply. Students from historically underrepresented groups, and from colleges and universities that have limited research facilities, including tribal colleges and universities and community colleges, are particularly encouraged to apply.
Note: The majority of the program is funded by the National Science Foundation and, as such, is only open to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents.
Application Process:
Applications can be submitted here and will close February 9, 2022. Please note that recommendation letters are also due at this time. First round notifications will be no later than March 9, 2022.