Project Grant 2547512

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Biological Infrastructure awarded $372,396 to the University of New Orleans (Louisiana State University New Orleans) through the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) for a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site focused on novel interdisciplinary training in life and applied coastal science. The award, effective July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, will support the training of 30 undergraduate students annually across three summer sessions. The REU Site, branded as NOLA-NEXT GEN, will provide first- and second-year undergraduate students with eight-week summer research experiences, faculty mentorship, and professional development opportunities addressing critical coastal environmental challenges in the Greater New Orleans region, including coastal flooding, land loss from erosion and subsidence, and marine habitat restoration. The program explicitly aligns with NSF priorities in artificial intelligence and biotechnology while preparing the next-generation workforce for careers in coastal sciences.

The educational products and services delivered under this award include direct research engagement for participating students, mentorship from faculty and professionals across academia, industry, government, and nonprofit sectors, exposure to coastal habitats and engineering infrastructure, and structured professional development. Students will conduct research projects and present findings at scientific conferences, gaining practical experience in how research is conducted. The program includes formal assessment mechanisms through mid-program and post-program surveys of both student participants and faculty mentors to evaluate the effectiveness of the training initiative.