Project Grant 2244200

This Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation Division of Chemistry provides $405,000 to the University of Pittsburgh to operate a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site from September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2026. The REU Site will support the training of 10 undergraduate students per summer for 10 weeks over three years in collaborative research projects focused on the synthesis, characterization, and simulation of biological molecules and bio-inspired materials.

Students undertake individual research projects spanning topics such as sequence-controlled biodegradable polymers, DNA nanostructures for bottom-up nanofabrication, and modeling biomolecules adsorbed on graphene. They also receive training in research skills, responsible conduct, graduate school preparation, and belonging interventions aimed at broadening long-term participation in STEM. The award supports the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program's goal of strengthening the nation's scientific enterprise through advancing fundamental knowledge in these fields. Targeted recruitment draws from institutions including three Historically Black Colleges and Universities to ensure a diverse applicant pool.