“Our aim is not only to provide these students with a solid research foundation but also to foster their growth as future STEM professionals”
Kettering University Receives $465,000 NSF Grant to Launch Innovative Research Experience for Undergraduates Program
Kettering University is proud to announce it received a $465,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a new Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site. This substantial grant will fund a groundbreaking program dedicated to advancing research in control and sensing for autonomous vehicles.
Led by Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Diane Peters, associate professor of Mechanical Engineering, and Co-PI Dr. Rui Zhu, assistant professor of Computer Science, the REU program will offer undergraduate students from across the country the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on Kettering’s campus over the next three years.
The REU site will welcome 10 undergraduate students each summer for a 10-week immersive experience. This program is designed to expose participants to the exciting field of autonomous vehicles. This discipline leverages both mechanical engineering and computer science to drive innovation. Students will work on various research projects related to control systems and sensing technologies, gaining valuable hands-on experience. The Kettering University/GM Mobility Research Center (MRC) will play a crucial role in the program, providing students access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
“Receiving this NSF grant is a tremendous opportunity for us to support and mentor undergraduates from institutions where research opportunities may be limited,” said Dr. Peters. “Our aim is not only to provide these students with a solid research foundation but also to foster their growth as future STEM professionals.”
Applications for the REU program will be open to undergraduates nationwide. The program strongly emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, targeting students from institutions without extensive research facilities, including community colleges. In addition to their research work, participants will engage in professional development activities, including industry tours and presentations. The program will also offer financial support, covering housing, travel, and a weekly stipend, ensuring students can fully focus on their research without financial stress.
“This grant allows us to make a significant impact by bringing together a diverse group of students and providing them with a comprehensive research experience,” Dr. Peters said. “We are committed to creating an environment where students can thrive academically and personally while also engaging with our broader academic community.”
Students selected for the program will be matched with research projects and faculty mentors that align with their interests and career goals. The program will culminate in a poster session, allowing students to showcase their work and gain experience presenting their research. Ultimately, participants could see their work published in academic journals or presented at conferences.
Applications for the program are expected to open in December 2024 via the NSF Education and Training Application (ETAP). For more information, visit https://etap.nsf.gov/.
About the National Science Foundation (NSF)
The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 “to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense.” With an annual budget of over $8 billion, NSF is the funding source for approximately 20% of all federally supported basic research conducted by America’s colleges and universities.