Research Experience for Undergraduates

Water Quality in the Yucatan Peninsula

Application Deadlines: Applications will be available after December 1, 2025 with deadline February 15, 2026.
Decision Date: Decisions will be made by March 15, 2026.

Program Dates

June 15–August 7: Program Duration

• June 15–June 25: Northern Illinois University
• June 25-July 23: Puerto Morelos, QR, Mexico
• July 24–August 7: Northern Illinois University

In the summer of 2026, our team will embark on an investigative mission concerning groundwater resources in the Yucatan Peninsula. This research initiative, generously funded by the National Science Foundation, extends a warm welcome to undergraduate students deeply passionate about the realm of water science. Eight selected students will actively engage in research projects under the guidance of our faculty mentors, forging collaborative connections with Mexican scientists and fellow students in and around the vibrant locale of Cancun, Mexico.

This comprehensive program unfolds across a span of eight weeks, comprising three distinctive segments. The inaugural phase commences at the Northern Illinois University (NIU) campus in DeKalb, Illinois. Here, participants will hone their research skills, craft robust research plans, and immerse themselves in the intricacies of the water resources within the Yucatan Peninsula. During this period, comfortable on-campus accommodations will be generously provided.

The program's second phase takes place in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. Here, students will work in close tandem with our esteemed faculty mentors and collaborate with Mexican scientists while taking up residence in local housing. This immersive phase offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.

Upon the successful culmination of the program, participants will return to NIU, where they will meticulously analyze the data they have collected and eloquently present their research findings.

We are especially keen to encourage applications from students enrolled at community colleges and other academic institutions that may have limited access to research opportunities.

* Due to the late FAFSA applications this year, for the question "Are you Pell Grant eligible?", if you do not know, please answer the question as "Yes".

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under Grants #2244453 (REU Northern Illinois University), #2320748 (MRI Northern Illinois University), and #1852263 (REU Northeastern Illinois University).

Disclaimer: Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this website are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.