Nanomaterials REU for Community College Students
Department: Rice Office of STEM Engagement (R-STEM)
The focus of this REU is to explore new approaches in nanotechnology through research projects focused on nanomaterials for enhanced water purification and nanomaterials to improve energy production, storage, and transmission. This REU is specifically for community college students in the Greater Houston Area to explore sustainable solutions that lead to a future where oil and natural gas are converted efficiently into hydrogen and valuable carbon materials, where we have efficient tools to store and convert energy, and where new physical and chemical processes increase access to clean water in all parts of the globe.
The 10-week research experience will introduce students to research, applications, and education and career opportunities in nanotechnology in an inclusive culture. Students will interact with Rice faculty, post-doctoral and graduate student mentors and teaching staff who will be guiding them through program activities that include research methodology, oral and written presentations, networking, career webinars, and college transferring; along with local STEM industrial opportunities that will promote the dissemination of the program's impact into their communities. REU participants will present their research findings at the Smalley-Curl Nanotechnology Institute's Summer Research Colloquium. These program activities are designed to cultivate interest in STEM, provide skills and knowledge in conducting research and scientific thinking, and assimilate community college students in a university setting for a viable future in STEM.
- Program Start Date: May 26, 2026
- Program End Date: July 31, 2026
- Program Length: 10 weeks
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
Program Contact:
For further information regarding this program, please visit the R-STEM REU Website or contact Dr. Mirna Wilson at mw155@rice.edu or Dr. Faiza Zafar at fz25@rice.edu.
Faculty Program Director
