This Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site at Nevis Labs provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to participate in scientific research, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF). During the 10-week program, each participant joins one of the ongoing experimental efforts in high energy particle physics (HEP) and astroparticle physics research. These research areas aim to identify the most fundamental constituents of the universe and probe their interactions. Experimental groups involved in the Summer REU program at Nevis investigate pressing issues in HEP and astroparticle physics, including studies of the Higgs Boson, searches for new physics beyond the Standard Model, neutrino oscillations, and dark matter. Opportunities also exist to work on state-of-the-art electronics and detector development, or in radiation physics at RARAF. The first week of the REU program includes lectures and tutorials by Nevis faculty and scientific staff, discussing high energy physics concepts and tools used in experiments. During this week, students join a specific experimental group for the remainder of the summer. Following the introductory week, students collaborate with their assigned experimental group on research under the direct supervision of a faculty member, who helps identify a well-defined research project achievable within the REU timeframe. The final week is dedicated to writing a scientific report summarizing the research project and progress, culminating in a 30-minute oral presentation to other students and Nevis scientific staff.
Program
Organizers: Columbia University, National Science Foundation
Host: Columbia University
Timeframe: May 27 to August 1, 2025
Duration: 70 days
Locations: North America, United States, New York City
Study Area: Natural Sciences
Specific Fields: Physics
Application
Deadlines:- February 7, 2025
- March 8, 2025
Criteria: Must be a US citizen or permanent resident. Must be enrolled at their home institution for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025. Must not have graduated before May 27, 2025. Must demonstrate appropriate health insurance for the program duration (May 27 - August 1, 2025). Must be available for the full 10-week program from May 27 to August 1, 2025. Enthusiasm for experimental physics research is required. Desirable, but not required, skills include computer expertise (C++ and/or Python, Linux), mechanical aptitude, and electronics experience. No previous research experience is required. Transcripts are not required nor considered.
Target Degree: Bachelor
Required Documents:- Online Application Form (includes Name, E-mail, Contact Info, US Citizen/Permanent Resident status, Undergraduate institution, Highest physics degree offered by your undergraduate institution, Year of current study, Major, Research experience/background, Computer experience/background, Other relevant experience and/or comments, Top 2 Nevis research groups interested in, One-paragraph description of interest, Information on Referee)
- Letter of Recommendation (1)
Costs & Contact
Stipend: $7500 USD stipend, includes travel allowance for domestic return-trip travel expenses. Free housing is provided.
Cost: Participants must demonstrate appropriate health insurance.
Contact: reu2025@nevis.columbia.edu
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