FAQs


When is the application deadline for the summer 2019 program?

The deadline to apply is February 28, 2019. On or before this date, your application should be submitted and both letters of recommendation should be sent from each writer direclty to chemreu@niu.edu.

Is previous research experience required?

No, previous research experience is not required.

I am currently enrolled as a student at Northern Illinois University, can I apply to this program?

The REU is targeted at non‐NIU students. NIU students are encouraged to apply to other summer research programs.

I will graduate before July 2019. Am I eligible to apply?

No, the NSF requires that participants have at least one semester of undergraduate study remaining after completing the summer program.

Am I eligible to apply if I am not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or permanent resident?

No, the NSF requires participants to be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or permanent residents.

Can I participate in this program if my college does not complete its spring semester until June?

Participants are required to be available for the entire duration of the summer program, June 2 – August 10, 2019.

How do I submit my transcript(s)?

A copy of your unofficial transcript(s) should be uploaded to the online application form as a pdf, doc, docx, or jpeg.

When will I learn if I have been selected for this program?

We will notify accepted applicants sometime in March.

When are faculty members who apply and are selected as part of a faculty/student team expected to visit NIU?

Non‐NIU Faculty members participating as part of faculty/undergraduate teams are expected to visit NIU for two weeks during the summer to participate with the students in the summer research program and collaborate with NIU faculty. Ideally, faculty participants are able to attend the end of program poster session (August 10, 2019).

What do I do if I need to change one or more of my recommendation letter writers?

Send application updates to chemreu@niu.edu.

Who do I contact if I still have questions about the Northern Illinois University's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry's NSF‐REU summer program?

If you still have questions, please contact the program directors Drs. James Horn and Ralph Wheeler at chemreu@niu.edu.