The University of South Alabama (Mobile, AL) is accepting applications for an NSF-REU on the Structure and Function of Proteins. The program provides 10 weeks (21 May – 27 July 2012) of summer research training that focuses on integrative projects at the junction of engineering, biology, and chemistry.  Research projects will relate to the central theme of protein structure and function and be collaborative in nature with pairs of students working on different aspects of a specific project guided by faculty from the three disciplines.

Undergraduates participating will conduct independent research under the mentorship of faculty, explore the implications of their research with peers and mentors through formal and informal discussion groups, develop an understanding of the ethical implications of the research process and professionalism, and present their research at an end of program symposium.

To be eligible, students must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident that is currently enrolled in an undergraduate program, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and completed either an organic chemistry or biochemistry sequence. Students are selected based on academic record, research performance/interest, and potential for outstanding research in biology, chemistry, or engineering. Each student will be housed in a campus dormitory (at no cost to the student), will receive a weekly stipend of $500 for 10 weeks, a weekly food allowance, and travel costs up to $500.

Application Deadline: 24 February 2012

Information about the program, research projects, and the application are available at: http://www.southalabama.edu/alliedhealth/biomedical/ucur/index.htm