Multilevel research in an interdisciplinary center

CHED 157

Frank W Snowden, snowden@cems.umn.edu and Timothy P. Lodge. Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, University of Minnesota, 489 Amundson Hall, 421 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
Since 1999 the University of Minnesota MRSEC has operated a comprehensive, interdisciplinary array of programs oriented toward developing and training the next generation of materials scientists and engineers. Through these programs Faculty-Student Teams, the Native American Undergraduate Fellows, and research experiences for undergraduates (REU) and high-school teachers (RET), we have hosted nearly 300 participants from four-year and Tribal Colleges, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, regional Community Colleges and high schools. Research is conducted in four interdisciplinary research groups with faculty from six science and engineering departments. Our program provides high-quality research and education experiences in materials science and engineering, primarily to students and faculty from undergraduate institutions with limited research opportunities. We have demonstrated consistent and growing success at including women and underrepresented minorities in these activities. Student performance, including graduation rates, undergraduate publications, and graduate school matriculation are reported.