A Wake-up Call
Undergraduate research is the key to educating adequate numbers of American scientists and engineers, James E. Quick says.
In 2008, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the independent government agency responsible for promoting science and engineering through research programs and education projects, allocated $33 million for its Research Experiences for Undergraduates program.
Engineering undergraduates from across the country vie for summer NSF Research Experience positions in SMU’s Department of Mechanical Engineering. A $269,958 NSF grant awarded to David Willis and Paul Krueger, associate professors of mechanical engineering, has supported undergraduate research over the past three years.
“Research is a great way of engaging students in their degree program, because it gives them the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom,” says Willis, an Altshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor. “I think for some students it’s a wake-up call. They have the opportunity to learn what graduate school will be like on a firsthand basis, and whether it’s for them.”
Each of the 10 undergraduates accepted this year were matched with a lab according to their interests. Senior Dan Salta focused on an improved set-up for holding materials in place during electron beam welding with a plasma window. The process has applications in automotive, medical, semiconductor and other industries.
With an eye toward research and development, Salta added the design component to his engineering repertoire. His experience also tipped the scale in favor of pursuing a Master’s degree.
“Going through the program showed me some things to expect, and as of now, I’m planning to go to grad school.”
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