Solar Physics/Astronomy & Space Physics REU Program

View this Opportunity's Website 

' Provide high-quality state-of-the-art research experience. ' Develop independence, creativity, and interest in physics and astronomy graduate study.

' Demonstrate how academic knowledge acquired in classes relates to real-world research problems.

' Develop and strengthen practical research skills.

' Encourage participation by women and minorities in research.

Research

Most projects involve analysis of data from space missions such as Yohkoh, SOHO, TRACE, RHESSI, Hinode, and SDO and ground-based observatories. Experience has shown that data analysis projects are suitable for most undergraduates at the sophomore or junior level. Additionally, each year there are a few opportunities in the solar-stellar connection (dynamo theory, data analysis), solar magneto-hydrodynamics, and space hardware development.

Venue

The summer months in Montana offer outstanding opportunities for outdoor recreation and other activities associated with the university and the community. Surrounded by spectacular mountains and rivers, Bozeman is within easy driving distance of Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.

Benefits

Our program gives participants an opportunity to develop skills for contemporary research under the guidance of internationally known physicists. These REU experiences help students make informed decisions about graduate school and careers in academia or research.

Training and Education

The first week of our program includes training in the unix/linux/Solaris computing environment and IDL as tools for numerical modeling and data analysis. Lectures by MSU faculty and visiting professors cover a variety of subjects related to the research program. Participants are offered an opportunity to give public talks and lead star parties during two weekends in Yellowstone National Park. The last week of our program includes participant presentations of research results. The most successful projects lead to presentations at conferences and publications in journals. For a more detailed look at the program, see the calendars for 2011 and 2010.

Eligibility

Participants must be full-time undergraduates, typically finishing their sophomore or junior years. Applications from underrepresented groups are particularly welcomed. There are no restrictions with regard to citizenship. Foreign participants are supported from non-NSF sources.

Practical Details

The summer 2013 program will run from June 3 through August 9. Time-critical first and last week activities and summer housing limitations preclude other start and end dates. Stipends will be $5100 plus a $375 food allowance for the ten week program. Travel costs to and from Bozeman (up to coach air fare) from home or campus are covered and university residence hall lodging (single room) is provided. For non-US participants, support for travel costs is limited to the economy roundtrip airfare from JFK/New York.



Application Deadline: 2/17/2013

Program Dates: 6/3/2013 - 8/9/2013

Participating Institution(s):
(Click an institution to see all programs it hosts)

 • Program Website 

This Program is funded by:
National Science Foundation (NSF)