Program schedule
A draft program for 2024 is below.
May 29, 2024: Orientation
Orientation will consist of an introduction to the REU and a meet and greet with ATOC community members.
Weeks 1 and 2: Getting started
Python boot camp
In the mornings, students will learn the basics of using computer programming to analyze scientific data sets. Students will work in groups to complete a variety of small projects. Prior programming experience is not required!
Research
Students will become familiar with their research groups and begin meeting and working with their assigned faculty mentor.
Mentorship
In addition to a faculty mentor, each student will have one graduate student mentor who can help answer questions and provide guidance throughout the program. Students should expect to meet with their faculty and graduate student mentor once per week at the beginning of the program.
Weeks 3-8: Program Body
Research
Students will continue to work with faculty mentors who will guide the students with their individual research projects and develop skills that will contribute to the students’ future academic and employment successes. Students will occasionally give short presentations of research updates to their peers.
Skill Development
Students will have the opportunity to attend a variety of seminars and panel discussions throughout the week as well as informal coffee hours with research scientists. Topics will cover how to read science papers, how to illustrate results, how to give an effective presentation, and more. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to participate in field trips to profressional labs in the Boulder area.
Community building
Throughout the summer we will host social events (i.e. trivia, game nights, outdoor activities) for REU students and the ATOC community
Weeks 9-10: Professional development
Research
Students will wrap up their summer projects with their faculty mentors.
Research Symposium
Students will present their work to the ATOC community in the last week. A poster session will be held Wednesday July 31 and REU participants will give oral presentations on Thursday Aug 1.
Professional Development
Students will learn about career opportunities in industry and academia by speaking with professionals from different career paths. Students will also attend workshops covering topics such as how to write a resume or cover letter and how to apply to graduate school.