Welcome to the home page for the TCU Department of Physics and Astronomy REU program in Physics and Astrophysics

This TCU REU program is an NSF sponsored program. We are looking forward to hosting seven students during the summer of 2010!

As a Participant in the TCU Physics and Astronomy REU program, you will:

• Collaborate on a research project with TCU faculty mentors, graduate students and other students.

• Learn about working in the aerospace industry through behind-the-scenes field trips.

• Develop skills in giving a research presentation.

• Participate in a one day workshop on ethics in science.

• Receive a $4500 stipend.

• Receive free housing on campus.

• Receive travel support to/from TCU.

• Participate is field trips, and have access to the library, computer and recreation facilities.

• Have travel expenses paid to present your results at a scientific conference after the program.

Research Opportunities

Atomic & Molecular Physics

Observational Astronomy

Laboratory Astrophysics

Theoretical Modeling and Computer Simulation

Material Science, MEMS, high pressure research

Application Deadline

March 1, 2010 or until all positions are filled.

Contact Information

Dr. C. A. Quarles

TCU Department of Physics and Astronomy

c.quarles@tcu.edu phone: 817-257-6484

Summer 2010 Program Dates

10 week program: May 24 through July 30, 2010

FAQs

How hard is it to get in the program?

The number of well-qualified applicants is about 10 times the number that can be accepted, so it is very competitive. It is wise to apply to a number of REU programs and hope to get accepted into one. Check out the NSF web site for information on all the REU programs: http://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/

What kind of preparation do I need to be competitive?

Successful applicants will have good grades, good recommendations, a demonstrated willingness to work hard, and a serious interest in science and in research. You must be majoring in the physical sciences or engineering and must have completed at least one year of physics courses and the related mathematics. For most programs in the TCU REU, you should have Modern Physics or Physics 3, but the specific preparation that is helpful depends on the research area you want to work in. For example, C++ programming experience is useful if you want to work in the neuroscience simulation area, general chemistry is useful for some areas of material science research. We have accepted Freshmen into the program, but usually it is an advantage to be a junior.

Is there anything special about TCU’s recruitment philosophy?

While the program is advertised nationally on the NSF website, we specifically focus our REU recruitment efforts to strongly encourage and subsequently support students from smaller programs with limited opportunities for research, students with no previous REU experience and students from underrepresented groups (women and minorities).

What are some schools that participants have come from?

Participants in the TCU program have come from Angelo State, Austin College, Baylor, Bowdoin, Brandeis, Centenary College LA, Harvey Mudd, Houston Baptist, LeTourneau, Loyola Chicago, Mary Baldwin, Midwestern State, Monmouth, Midwestern State, Tarleton State, Trinity, U Michigan-Flint, U North Dakota, U Pittsburgh.

How do I apply?

You can apply on line by clicking on application on the right. You will need to complete an on-line form, send in a transcript, and ask two faculty to write recommendations. Most of the process can be done by email. We plan to make initial appointments in mid March.

This an NSF sponsored REU program