Goals of the Program

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. 

REU 2024 of Participants and Staff

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.
  • Participants receive a $6,500 stipend plus a $1,000 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. Disabled students, minoritized students, military veterans, students whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor's degree, economically-disadvantaged students, and students at institutions with limited research opportunities are encouraged to apply.

Questions? Try our FAQ. You can also send an email to us at undergrad-micro-info@uiowa.edu or call us at 319-335-7807.

Please check back in December for details about Summer 2025.