REU site: atmospheric measurement and data analysis

The National Science Foundation Division of Undergraduate Education awarded Hampton University $236,000 on September 1, 2026, under the STEM Education program to establish a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site focused on atmospheric measurement and data analysis.

The award funds an undergraduate research program providing hands-on training in remote sensing of the atmosphere, ground-based instrumentation, satellite data analysis, and national and international instrument networks. Undergraduate students selected from across the United States will conduct independent research projects in data collection, data analysis techniques, and scientific communication while receiving mentorship from faculty and researchers. The program aims to develop workforce-ready scientists and engineers equipped to address air quality and hazardous weather challenges.

The award covers the period September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2029, with place of performance in Hampton, Virginia. The award is structured as a project grant with no planned sub-awards. This REU site is supported by the Department of Defense in partnership with the NSF REU Program.

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 remote sensing of the atmosphere and provides a unique opportunity to study the atmosphere using a broad range of ground instrumentation, satellite data feeds, and national and international instrument networks. The students will develop skills in data collection, data analysis techniques, 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 air quality and hazardous weather challenges. This site is supported by the department of defense in partnership with the NSF REU program. 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.