Vanderbilt University NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates Program

Now accepting applications for the summer 2026 NSF REU program in Nanoscience and Nanoengineering at Vanderbilt University. The application deadline is February 15^th.  The Vanderbilt Institute for Nanoscale Science and Engineering (VINSE) focuses on interdisciplinary nanoscale research at the interface of chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering. More than 45 faculty participants from the School of Engineering, College of Arts and Science, and the School of Medicine inspire students by creating an atmosphere of excitement and creativity. Each REU participant will work directly with VINSE faculty members and their research groups and be part of the larger VINSE community.

The VINSE REU has a record of success, >95% of former VINSE NSF REU students either attend graduate school or are employed in STEM-related fields. Many have received several awards and honors including:

• 26 NSF Graduate Research Fellowships (another 14 received honorable mentions)
• 8 Goldwater Fellowships
• 3 SMART Fellowships
• 3 NDSEG Fellowships
• 1 Rhodes Scholar
• 1 Gates Cambridge Fellowship
• 1 NASA Graduate Fellowship
• 1 PD Soros Award for New Americans
• 4 NIH Awards: 2 Graduate Fellowship, 1 Postbac ITRA, 1 Oxford-Cambridge Scholar
• >55% of former REU students have (or are expected to) co-author a journal publication
• >70% of former REU students have given a presentation at a National Conference, many funded by the REU site

PROGRAM INCLUDES

• Hands-on research in state-of-the-art facilities
• Seminars, workshops, and field trips
• Group social activities and banquet
• Optional outreach opportunities to high school students

ELIGIBILITY

• Undergraduate students majoring in science or engineering
• U.S. Citizen or permanent resident  

AWARD

• $7,000 stipend
• $500 travel allowance
• Room and board

VINSE REU Admissions Team
vinse@vanderbilt.edu

vu.edu/vinse-reu

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Need support to prepare your application materials? The Engineering CDCR can help.

• Resume Guidelines
• Cover Letter Guidelines
• Career Coaching Appointments