A unique University of Kentucky program is accepting applications from undergraduate students interested in assisting with faculty research. Based in the UK College of Education, the program provides annual fellowships for eight students with an interest in STEM Education. It is open to undergraduates at any university within driving distance of Lexington.

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) — STEM Education program, funded by the National Science Foundation, pairs students with faculty members in STEM Education at the UK College of Education for one academic year. Together, they plan, conduct, analyze, write and disseminate a research project based on the faculty member’s research background.

The fellows enroll in a research course for the 2022-23 fall and spring semesters designed specifically for those selected to participate in this program. The fall course will meet weekly with some classes taking place virtually and others on the UK campus. The spring course will meet biweekly with some meetings being conducted virtually.

“This program is great for those who want to be competitive for future education careers, as it will boost your resume. It is also a strong preparation for graduate school if that is a route you are considering after graduation,” said Molly Fisher, associate professor of STEM Education and principal investigator of the Research Experiences for Undergraduates program.

The time requirement for each research fellow is approximately 15 hours per week in the 2022-23 fall and spring semesters. Research fellows will be paid $7,200 per year and the project will culminate with a fully paid trip to the National Conference of Undergraduate Research.

This project is funded through the National Science Foundation, Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) – STEM Education, Award #1949544.

Go to https://education.uky.edu/stem/reu/ for information on how to apply.  The application deadline is Sunday, April 3, 2022. For information, contact Fisher at molly.fisher@uky.edu.