Engineering and computer science juniors and seniors who want to stay in Rolla for a graduate degree can get a jump start on research through the College of Engineering and Computing’s new Dean’s Undergraduate Research Scholars Program. The first student cohort began this semester; the deadline to apply for summer or fall is Friday, May 13.

“We’re providing our top undergraduate students with valuable research experiences to build a solid foundation for their graduate careers,” says Dr. Richard Wlezien, vice provost and dean of CEC.

Twelve students make up the first cohort:
• Jacob Anderson, a senior in aerospace engineering
• Adam Boland, a senior in aerospace engineering
• Gracie Boyer, a senior in mechanical engineering
• Lavanya Bhargava, a senior in chemical engineering
• Nicolas Calderon, a junior in mining engineering
• Collin Gentry, a senior in aerospace engineering
• Carter Glynn, a junior in metallurgical engineering
• Patrick Marshall, a senior in geology and geophysics
• Zachary Osterwisch, a senior in electrical engineering
• Shelby Ply, a senior in environmental engineering
• Aditya Prabhu, a senior in civil engineering
• Aaron Reed, a senior in mechanical engineering.

Students receive a $2,000 scholarship and a $500 budget for research-related expenses for each semester they’re in the program, up to a total of two semesters. Students must be enrolled full time and have a 3.4 grade point average while they receive funding.

Students who are interested in participating in the program should talk to their advisor for more information and to complete an application.