Garcia Summer Research Program

About

The Garcia Summer Research Program is a prestigious, National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded initiative designed to introduce high-achieving students to the frontiers of polymer engineering and materials science. Its mission is to provide an environment where students can conduct independent or collaborative research alongside faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) participants. Students engage in core activities such as laboratory experimentation at world-class facilities like the Brookhaven National Laboratory, utilizing advanced techniques like electron microscopy, x-ray scattering, and secondary ion mass spectrometry. The program’s unique value lies in its high output of student publications and its focus on real-world scientific contributions, covering topics from polymer recycling to protein and DNA surface interactions. Beyond the lab, the program emphasizes professional development through symposiums and the preparation of manuscripts for academic journals.

Application Requirements