Blockchain REU (BREU) Site:
Embracing Blockchain for a Secure and Trustworthy Tomorrow
May 28 - July 26, 2024 (In-Person)
Blockchain REU (BREU) Site :: Overview
Blockchain technology is revolutionizing how information is encoded, secured, and distributed. It is a technology that can improve the safety and security of existing processes in society and enable the development of systems that could not previously exist. Potential applications of blockchain are far-reaching, including how financial institutions exchange currency, governments protect the integrity of electronic voting, and medical providers secure health information systems. In this in-person REU Site program, we will facilitate the growth of ten undergraduate students each year into researchers by providing them with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to navigate the design, development, and implementation of blockchain technologies for securing critical information systems. The undergraduate students' cohort will receive impactful and effective learning and research experiences focusing on blockchain theory and technology. They will be mentored in individual and collaborative learning and research environments to promote future study and career selection.
Publications from previous years can be accessed here.
Testimonials from previous years can be accessed here.
Blockchain REU (BREU) Site :: Features
Participants of the Blockchain REU Site will:
Receive research experiences in blockchain technology and applications for 9 weeks to build their knowledge, skills, and expertise to become future leaders in blockchain.
Perform research in a collaborative setting in support of their professional development.
Each receives a traineeship stipend of $6,300.
Non-local participants will be provided housing, a $900 meal allowance, and reimbursement of travel expenses up to $770.
Participate in the Idaho Conference on Undergraduate Research (ICUR).
Possibly present research findings at a national conference.
Blockchain REU (BREU) Site :: Mentors
Dr. Gaby Dagher (Director, PI)
Associate Professor, Computer Science, Boise State.
Research Interest: cybersecurity, applied crypto, blockchain, data privacy.
Dr. Min Long (Co-PI)
Asso. professor, Computer Science, BSU.
Research Interest: application of computer/computational science to fundamental sciences.
Dr. Donald Winiecki
Professor, OWPL, Boise State University.
Research Interest: morality & ethics in professional practice.
Dr. Steve Cutchin
Asso. professor, Computer Science, BSU.
Research Interest: visualizations for understanding and explaining blockchain ecosystem and patterns.
Dr. Tim Andersen
Professor, Computer Science, Boise State University.
Research Interest: deep learning, artificial neural networks.
Dr. Jun Zhuang
Assistant Professor, Computer Science, Boise State University.
Research Interest: trustworthy and robust ML/AI systems and algorithms.
Participation Eligibility
To be eligible for the REU Site program in the summer of 2024, you must be:
An undergraduate student in computer science or related STEM fields.
A U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident.
Available to personally attend the 9-week full-time summer program in Boise, Idaho.
<<< Students from underrepresented groups and/or schools with limited STEM research capacity are highly encouraged to apply >>>
Admission & How to Apply
Applications will be reviewed and assessed on a first-come, first-served basis until all fellowship positions are fulfilled. Due to the limited number of fellowships, you are encouraged to apply ASAP.
To apply:
Prepare your application:
Your undergraduate transcripts
Your curriculum vitae (CV)
A statement of purpose
A reference who is willing to provide a support letter for you. You will need to enter their name and contact information in the application form, and then they will be notified automatically about how to submit their support letter.
Apply by clicking on the "Apply Now" button below and completing the application form.
Logistics Portal
If you've been admitted to the Blockchain REU, please click on the image (right) to obtain information helpful with the preliminary logistics of this program.
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact:
Dr. Gaby Dagher, REU Site Director
Department of Computer Science
Boise State University
gabydagher@boisestate.edu
Dr. Gaby Dagher
Site Director