A broad mix of undergraduate students will participate in innovative research projects focused on space systems technology research in mechanical engineering. These projects will explore cutting-edge areas, including space mechanism design theory and its applications, design of self-healing additively manufactured materials for space component repair, design and simulation of hyperlastic materials for spacecraft sealing, simulations of space vehicles in low-gravity environments, and more. All research projects aim to advance societal well-being, improve U.S. economic competitiveness, and/or foster environmental sustainability.

Students will have access to a strongly mentored research environment where each student is mentored by an B´ÎÔª mechanical engineering faculty member. Students will explore B´ÎÔª’s state-of-the-art research facilities such as the Rapid Prototyping Center (RPC) and Rosie Supercomputer located in the Dwight and Dian Diercks Computational Science Hall. The REU team hopes that the diverse cohort - from primarily undergraduate institutions - will get to present at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research or the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics Regional Conference.