Research Experience for Undergraduates
Funded by the National Science Foundation, MSOE REU program will involve a broad mix of students to conduct research in advanced manufacture of novel materials and bio-nano applications in a strongly mentored environment. MSOE 3D Printing complements metal laser-wire deposition at Midwest Engineered Systems and collaboration with Northwest University’s Neuroimaging, provides opportunities for students to gain insight into customer discovery and exploration that culminate in unique solutions. All projects focus on impacting society by improving life standards through human health and efficient, sustainable systems. The REU team hopes that the diverse cohort - from primarily undergraduate institutions - will get to meet and present at a national conference on undergraduate research. The Site provides a unique perspective on state-of-the-art 3DP research to all participants. New features of this site include the current participants being mentored by prior REU participants in Ph.D. programs and beyond and being provided with opportunities to engage in K-12 outreach activities through the MSOE STEM Center.
REU 2022 Oral Research Presentations →
2022 REU Projects
- Ethyl Cinnamate Nanobead Sunscreen Characterization Using Mouse Skin NIH/3T3 Fibroblast Cells
- Green Synthesis of Metallic Nanoparticles using American Ginseng and Upland Cress
- Investigation of Blister Formation in Post-Processing of Additively Manufactured Parts
- Diclofenac Cytotoxicity in 2- and 3-D Rat Hepatocytes
- Biomedical Applications of Pectin Microspheres
- A Realistic Brain Phantom for Advanced Neuroimaging Quality Assurance
- Medical Applications of Additive Manufacturing: Anatomical Modeling
- Material Development – Attaining New Properties with Filled Polymers
- Methods of Creating Fiber-based Brain Phantom for Diffusion Tensor MRI
REU 2022 Photos
REU 2021 Oral Research Presentations →
2021 REU Projects
- Manufacture of a Head Phantom for MRI Machine Calibration
- Creation of Three-dimensional Pedagogical Models of Genetic Mutations
- Biosynthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Upland Cress: Process Optimization and Characterization
- Synthesis of a Nano-bead Sunscreen and Testing its Efficacy
- Creation of Three-dimensional Pedagogical Models of Genetic Mutations
- Development of Pectin Microspheres as a Novel Component of Bioink
- Characterization of Additively Manufactured Metals from ADDere Printing
- Additive-Subtractive Hybrid Manufacturing Machine (ASHMM) Software Toolchain
- Additive-Subtractive Hybrid Manufacturing
REU 2021 Photos
REU 2021 participants
Executive VP of Academics, Dr. Baumgartner, conversing with Efrem Dana at the Poster Presentation.
Andrew Gray of Trinity University wins the Marsha Watson Excellence in Communication Award.
Important Dates
- Program Dates: May 30, 2023 to August 4, 2023
- Application Deadline: Open now until filled (on or before March 31, 2023)
Early application is highly encouraged.
REU Overview – Program Description
As part of MSOE’s REU program, a technically diverse group of undergraduate students will participate in transformative problem solving of interdisciplinary projects involving additive manufacturing research at Milwaukee School of Engineering Rapid Prototyping Center, its Bioprinting lab and its synergistic centers of collaboration with industry and other institutions. The projects are uniquely poised for cross-pollination and customer discovery and creativity. With the unprecedented technological advances in 3D Printing affecting our daily lives, along with its features such as accuracy, reduction in development and delivery time, and reliability, it is becoming cost-effective because of the advancement of materials. You will receive a career-enriching experience from a well-established and well-run program culminating in a national conference presentation and a strong desire to pursue a graduate degree.
Your research will be guided by a faculty advisor with expertise in a particular research field. The interdisciplinary nature of this work opens minds and promotes creative solutions to problem solving. Hands-on access to additive manufacturing devices and laboratories, close partnerships with advisors, industry mentors and other educational institutions, paired with a creative learning environment provides you with a high probability of success in research.
Your research capabilities will increase as you explore research topics through:
- learning new software
- designing and completing experiments
- group discussions
- building models
- field trips
- problem solving with advisors and teammates
- written and oral communication
- library and Internet research
Explore previous research modules through the REU program.
Who Should Apply?
Students who have completed their sophomore year of an engineering, pre-engineering, computer science or science-based (biology, chemistry, physics, etc.) curriculum; are enrolled in a university for the fall term; are a full-time student with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or greater; are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States; have an interest in research and in learning about additive manufacturing applications will be considered. Women, minorities and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply. Accepted candidates will participate 40 hours per week for the 10-week session. All students receive an attractive stipend and travel allowance. Housing is also provided.
How to Apply
Student Qualifications in General
- Completed the sophomore year of engineering, pre-engineering or a science-based curriculum.
- Enrolled in a university for the fall term as a full-time student.
- Earned a GPA of 3.00 or greater.
- A U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
- Have an interest in research and in learning about the REU Site topics.
- Women, minorities and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
- No experience in additive manufacturing is required.
Required Application Materials
- A brief cover letter
- One-page resume
- One-page statement indicating your interest in 3D Printing, materials, bio-nano applications and undergraduate research, as well as why you should be selected as a participant.
- TWO letters of reference (at least one from previous or current faculty)
- Your university transcript (include transcripts from each university you have attended): unofficial are acceptable for applying. If selected, however, the official transcripts will then need to be sent.
Application materials must be received by the specified due date. They should be sent via email as one PDF package. Letters could also be e-mailed directly to the PI from the references. Only complete applications will be reviewed.
Submit Your Application
Send your application materials by email to:
Dr. Subha Kumpaty
Milwaukee School of Engineering
1025 N. Broadway
Milwaukee WI 53202
Questions? Contact Dr. Kumpaty.