Undergraduate students from across the nation are currently on the University of Arkansas campus participating in a variety of Research Experiences for Undergraduates programs. The programs are designed to give students hands-on experiences in research areas of their choice while introducing them to careers in scientific research.

The programs offered are focused in seven disciplines: chemistry, computer science and computer engineering, ecosystem services and agricultural sustainability, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, microelectronics-photonics and physics. Students in the programs are working with faculty members on research projects during their 10-week stay at the U of A.

In addition to conducting research, students take field trips to industrial sites and partake in various social and team-building activities. "Dinner and Dialogue" events aimed at preparing the students for graduate school have been planned as well. Discussions will center on topics such as research ethics and business etiquette. Students will also interact with a panel of current University of Arkansas graduate students who will talk about their experiences in graduate school.

More than 80 undergraduates from 26 states are on the U of A campus as part of the research programs.

The 10-week programs, which are funded by the National Science Foundation, began May 17 and will conclude July 24.