REU site: environmental interfaces in dynamic urban systems

The National Science Foundation Office of Integrative Activities awarded Rutgers, The State University, Newark Division $465,285 on November 1, 2026, under the Geosciences program (CFDA 47.050) to operate a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site focused on environmental interfaces in dynamic urban systems through October 31, 2029.

The award funds an intensive research program that selects undergraduate students from across the United States to conduct hands-on investigations of environmental and ecological processes within urban systems. Participants work closely with faculty mentors to develop skills in laboratory analyses, field investigations, advanced instrumentation, data analysis, and scientific communication through independent research projects and cohort-based collaboration. The program emphasizes investigation of environmental interfaces that regulate urban environmental and ecosystem processes, preparing students for careers addressing geoscience and environmental challenges while building professional networks within the scientific workforce.

Work is performed in Newark, New Jersey. No sub-recipients are planned for this award.

Abstract

This project will provide undergraduate students with hands-on research opportunities in a variety of scientific disciplines. Students from across the united states will be selected to participate in intensive research projects, working closely with faculty and researchers who offer mentorship and guidance. Students will gain valuable scientific skills, professional networks, and career exploration, strengthening the workforce of outstanding scientists and engineers. This REU site focuses on environmental and ecological processes within urban systems and provides a unique opportunity to investigate environmental interfaces that regulate urban environmental and ecosystem processes. The students will develop skills in lab analyses, field investigations, advanced instrumentation, data analysis, and scientific communication through independent research projects and collaboration within a cohort of researchers. These experiences will prepare students for the workforce and provide them with the tools to address current and future geoscience and environmental challenges. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are not planned for this award.