The Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) in Microbiology at the Host-Pathogen Interface at The University of Iowa seeks to foster the careers of the next generation of microbiologists. We do this by providing an intensive 10-week research experience for bright and ambitious undergraduates who are considering a PhD in microbiology or an allied discipline. We hope that this experience will encourage students to pursue a career in basic science and give them the skills they need to succeed in that career path. The focus of the program is a hands-on research project conducted under the guidance of faculty and graduate student mentors. Students will also attend lectures to broaden their understanding of microbiology and educate them about graduate school and career options.
Overview of the Program
- Participants conduct full-time, hands-on research in microbiology, microbial genetics, or molecular biology.
- A list of recent summer REU projects can be found here.
- A list of potential faculty mentors can be found here. Clicking on the names will take you to descriptions of the faculty members’ research interests.
- Enrichment activities include weekly seminars and workshops on graduate school and career opportunities.
- At the end of the summer students present their findings in a campus-wide poster session.
- The program lasts for 10 weeks. The dates for 2026 are May 25 – July 31.
- Participants receive a $7,000 stipend plus a $1,300 supplement for food and other living expenses.
- On-campus housing is provided at no cost to the participants.
- The program pays travel costs.
Eligibility
The program is intended for undergraduates who:
- Will be returning to their home institution for at least one semester of undergraduate study before graduation.
- Are interested in pursuing graduate school and a career in biological research.
- Are United States citizens or permanent residents (hold a green card). DACA students are not eligible.
- Have limited access to research opportunities at their home institution.
- Prior research experience is NOT a requirement.
This program seeks to reduce barriers that might discourage students from pursuing advanced degrees in microbiology. We encourage all eligible applicants with an interest in microbiology to apply, regardless of previous research experience.
Questions? Try our FAQ. You can also email us at UI-Microbio-REU@uiowa.edu.
How to Apply
Click here to apply to our REU. In addition to the application, we require the following documents, which will be uploaded at the application portal:
- Your personal statement. Your personal statement should address the following questions:
- Career Goals and Research Interests: Describe your long-term career aspirations and the research areas you are passionate about.
- Fit with Our REU Program: Explain how participating in our specific REU program will support your career and research goals. What unique aspects of this program align with your interests?
- Challenges Overcome: (Optional) You may use this opportunity to discuss any challenges or barriers you have overcome in pursuing your goals.
- Your transcript. An official transcript is not necessary.
- Two letters of recommendation. Recommenders should address the applicant’s intellectual abilities, level of motivation, ability to work with others, and career interests (e.g., research, teaching, medical school, etc.).
