Researchers From Across the U.S. Joined U of A to Study Issues of Health and Extreme Violence

Ten students from across the nation traveled to the U of A to participate in the Department of Sociology and Criminology's NSF-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program, enhancing the university's national visibility and reputation as a destination for undergraduate research excellence. 

The intensive 10-week program provided students with hands-on training in crime and health data analytics, equipping participants with high-demand skills that support workforce development and student success. Working closely with faculty mentors, students leveraged unique datasets maintained by the Terrorism Research Center (TRC) and the Arkansas Health Equity and Access Lab (HEAL) to conduct original research addressing critical societal challenges, including rural health disparities in Arkansas and violent extremism across the United States. 

Now in its third year, the REU program is co-led by Steven Windisch, Jeff Gruenewald and Michael Niño and reflects the university's commitment to research, innovation and experiential learning. The program builds on the department's nationally recognized research strengths while creating pathways for recruiting high-achieving students into U of A graduate programs. By engaging students in research that addresses issues affecting Arkansas communities and the nation, the program advances the university's land-grant mission and strategic goals related to student success, research growth and societal impact. 

For more information about the program, visit the Crime Analytics REU website.