Introduction to the REU Program

The Cain Department of Chemical Engineering offers a 10-week summer REU program that introduces students to the nature of research-oriented careers in chemical engineering, with a focus on entrepreneurship and applying scientific advances in practice.

Program Details

• The program is designed for undergraduate students in any academic year (freshman through senior) at the time of the summer program.
• Participants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Students are paired with faculty mentors based on interests and participate in weekly seminars, field trips, and workshops covering research skills and professional topics such as ethics, patents, and intellectual property.
• The program runs alongside other LSU summer programs in physics, computational science, and biomedical science.

Eligibility Criteria

• Undergraduate student in any academic year (freshman through senior) at the time of the summer program.
• U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Application Process

• Interested students should complete the online application form.
• As part of the application, students are required to submit:
  • A one-page personal statement.
  • A copy of their current college transcripts.
  • 2-3 letters of support.

Instructions for Letter of Support Writers

• A substantial part of the evaluation will be based on the written letter.
• Please use this letter to describe the student's qualifications for participating in an REU program, including:
  • Scholastic aptitude.
  • Work ethic and maturity.
  • Motivation and aptitude for research.
  • Particular strengths or weaknesses.
  • Ability to flourish in group or semi-independent situations.
  • Whether you would choose to work with this student as a research mentor.
  • How well you know the applicant.
  • Relative ranking of applicant among his/her peers.

Stipends, Lodging, and Travel Expenses

• The program is paid, with a stipend of $7,000 to cover personal expenses.
• REU participants will be lodged in university housing at no direct expense to them.
• Up to $450 per student is available to assist with travel expenses to get to LSU at the beginning of the program and to return to their home or school at the end of the summer.

Program Funding

• The REU Program is funded by two awards from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Program Calendar

Summer 2026

• March 31, 2026: Complete applications are due by this date.
• April 15, 2026: Acceptance notifications will be sent around this date.
• May 1, 2026: Matching of participants with mentors will be finalized; travel arrangements should be completed.
• May 26, 2026: First day of summer program.
• July 31, 2026: Last day of summer program.

Louisiana State University

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Overview:

Louisiana State University (LSU) is a top research university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It is known for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and commitment to serving the state. LSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, art & design, business, engineering, law, and medicine.

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Services Offered:

LSU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

The Center for Advising & Counseling offers guidance on academic planning, course selection, and career exploration.

Disability Services:

The Disability Services office provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.

Student Health Center:

The Student Health Center offers medical care, mental health services, and wellness programs.

Financial Aid & Scholarships:

LSU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.

Campus Safety:

LSU has a dedicated campus police force and provides resources for student safety and security.

Residential Life:

LSU offers a variety of on-campus housing options for students.

University Recreation:

The University Recreation department provides opportunities for fitness, recreation, and intramural sports.

Campus Dining:

LSU offers a variety of dining options on campus, including restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores.

Career Services:

The Olinde Career Center provides resources for career exploration, job searching, and internship opportunities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

LSU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:

Student Organizations:

Over 400 student organizations provide opportunities for students to connect with others who share their interests.

Greek Life:

LSU has a strong Greek life system with a variety of fraternities and sororities.

Student Government:

The Student Government Association represents the interests of students and provides opportunities for leadership development.

Campus Events:

LSU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and cultural programs.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

LSU is a top research university with nationally recognized programs in various fields.

Research Opportunities:

LSU offers a wide range of research opportunities for students, including undergraduate research.

Vibrant Community:

LSU has a strong sense of community and offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved.

Location:

LSU is located in Baton Rouge, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

Career Preparation:

LSU provides excellent career preparation resources, including career counseling, job fairs, and internship opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

LSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

LSU offers over 100 undergraduate majors across various disciplines.

Graduate Programs:

LSU offers over 100 graduate programs, including master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and professional degrees.

Online Programs:

LSU offers a variety of online degree programs, including bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and graduate certificates.

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Other:

LSU is committed to serving the state of Louisiana and has a strong focus on research and economic development. The university has a significant economic impact on the state and is a leader in areas such as agriculture, biomedicine, coastal studies, defense, and energy.