Why research?

Research provides undergraduate students with hands-on experience in modern laboratory or computational methods, allows them to develop in-depth knowledge in a particular field, and can provide a glimpse into whether graduate study and a career in research might be of interest.

Mechanisms for research experience

The most common route to engage in research is ChE 399, Independent Study, which earns academic credit. One unit of ChE 399 may be applied directly as a technical elective within the ChE major; however, most students pursuing undergraduate research will undertake projects over two or more quarters for a more extensive experience. In addition, to independent study credit, some research laboratories have openings for work-study or paid laboratory aid positions.

At Northwestern and across the nation, there are summer research programs for undergraduate students that provide both research experience and a modest stipend. Most research centers sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) run such programs as part of their commitment to educational outreach; these are known generically as Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programs. A typical REU program involves 10-12 weeks of full-time research, pays a stipend, and may also cover some travel expenses. At Northwestern, summer REU programs are run by the Materials Research and Engineering Center (MRSEC), the Institute for Environmental Catalysis (IEC), and the Nanotechnology Science and Engineering Center (NSEC), among others. While NU students may apply for these programs, they draw from a national applicant pool. Thus, we encourage our students to consider the wide array of REU programs available across the country. In addition to research experience, such programs provide a chance to see other universities and experience life in a different region. A central listing of REU program is available at the NSF web site: www.nsf.gov/home/crssprgm/reu/

Additionally, there are several research grants available to McCormick students: http://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/undergraduate/#research

Where to start?

The following link provides descriptions of research pursued by the ChE faculty. First, decide which areas interest you. Then contact faculty one or two quarters in advance of when you'd like to initiate a project, to see if they have any projects suitable for undergraduate participation. NU ChE Faculty and Research Interests

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an upperclassmen to do undergraduate research? Some students initiate research as freshman and sophomores. However, it is often necessary (and beneficial) to have a stronger science and engineering course background prior to initiating research, so the majority of ChE 399 projects are pursued by juniors and seniors.

What will be expected of me? You should be prepared to dedicate as much effort for a unit of ChE 399 as any other course. Fifteen hours/week is a reasonable target, although individual faculty may have varying expectations. Students are usually asked to prepare a written report of their work at the conclusion of ChE 399 projects; a written report is mandatory if the research is performed as part of the departmental honors program. In any event, make sure that expectations are mutually understood at the start of any project.