REU: Synthesis, Assembly and Characterization of Soft Matter Systems

Researchers at Cleveland State University’s Department of Physics and Department of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering collaboratively study the unique properties and applications of soft matter materials. Together, we are in our third year of an NSF-sponsored Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site on Synthesis, Assembly and Characterization of Soft Matter Systems. The objective of our site is to involve undergraduate physics and engineering majors in meaningful interdisciplinary research projects within soft matter science and engineering. A primary focus of our site is to encourage students to continue in STEM fields as either graduate students or workforce members. CSU’s focus on Engaged Learning has cultivated a strong culture of support for undergraduate research, and REU participants benefit from this culture. Students receive one-on-one mentoring from experienced faculty and participate in a variety of professional development opportunities. This poster will give an overview of the student research accomplishments over the last three years. It will also discuss the benefits of the experience to both students and faculty mentors.