BioPATH Research Experience for Undergraduates

The Chemical Engineering REU BioPATH provides an empowering learning and research experience in topics related to Biobased Products and Technologies (BioPATH). This experience will nurture innovative thinking, enhance communication skills, foster a solid understanding of size and scale, and offer professional development to help prepare you for your future career. To learn more about the research projects offered, read the section "Areas of Research" below. 

Biobased products and technologies are crucial to support a sustainable, circular economy, with reduced reliance on fossil fuels, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. Derived from renewable resources like plants and microorganisms, these innovations offer biodegradable, low-pollution alternatives to petrochemicals, contributing to climate goals and rural economic development.

See "research projects" below to learn more about projects offered for summer 2026.

We aim for clearly defined projects with objectives and expectations that are achievable by undergraduates within 10-weeks. The collaborative nature of these projects will prepare students for doing research in both academic and professional settings in the future where collaboration is essential.  Students will work with faculty and graduate student mentors with state-of-the-art facilities at KU’s Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering.

Summer 2026 program dates: May 26 – July 31

Applications open: February 23, 2026 

Priority deadline: March 13th, 2026

Note: If the application link is still open, we will still accept your application. We will continue accepting applications until spots are filled.

List of Projects available for Summer 2026:

• Lignin Derived Membranes for Advanced Materials
• Biorenewable Polyesters and Novel Upcycling/Recycling Techniques
• Catalytic Conversion of Lignocellulosic Biomass into Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)
• Electrochemical Upgrading of Biomass-Derived HMF to FDCA for Renewable Polymers
• Valorization of Pistachio Shells for Sustainable Furfural Production
• Utilizing Agricultural Residues to Enhance Thermochemical Conversion of Municipal Sludge
• Tuning Catalysts for Biomass to Adipic Acid Conversion

Students will participate in scientific discussions, laboratory tours, boredom-busting ‘unseminars’, social mixers, team-building activities, and a research symposium. Professional development workshops will help prepare students for both graduate school and industry. Our extensive partnerships with many companies will also help students expand their network of contacts and learn about career opportunities.

• $7,000 summer stipend
• Travel allowance to and from Lawrence, Kansas (up to $500)
• Summer housing on campus where public transportation is readily available
• Meal plan
• State-of-the-art labs
• Industry contacts
• Safety training
• Team research
• Lab tours
• Professional development

Note: Current KU students are not eligible for housing, meal plans, or travel benefits, but will receive all other program benefits.

Online application are now open!

The application consists of general information, short-answer questions, a resume, unofficial transcripts, a personal essay, and a letter of recommendation.

Before you get started, consider the following items you will need to complete when filling your application form:

1. Short-answer questions - In your application form there will be open boxes to answer the following two questions:
   1. In 200 words or less - What is it about this REU program that excites you?
   2. (Optional) In 200 words or less - What role might art play in engineering and innovation? 
2. Personal Essay -- This essay (1,000 word or less) should describe your career goals, post-graduation plans, and your motivation for pursuing research in chemical engineering. You may use your essay to indicate more information about your top preferences for “Research Interest Areas” and why you would be particularly interested in those.
3. Upload resume - (1-2 page resume, PDF format)
4. Faculty reference letters -- You will arrange for the submission of at least one letter of recommendation from a faculty member at your current college/university acquainted with your laboratory work and coursework. One letter of recommendation is required. A second letter of recommendation is optional. The application form will ask to provide the name and email address(es) of the faculty member(s) that will provide the letter(s) of recommendation. The recommender(s) will receive and email with instructions to submit the letter.

Selection will be based on a variety of factors including current academic standing, letter(s) of recommendation, short answer questions, and a personal essay. The essay and short answer questions are very important.  Use them to demonstrate how the program will benefit your education and future career.

Project matching will be based on both faculty and topic availability. If you are selected for the program we will extend an invitation including the proposed project and faculty mentor. You will be able to accept our invitation knowing what you would be working on for the summer.

Other admission requirements:

• USA citizenship or permanent residence status 
• GPA of 2.8 or better
• Freshmen - seniors with anticipated graduation date December 2026 or later
• University: Students from any US university including KU students. 
• Majors:  chemical engineering and related fields (chemistry, biology, physics)
• No previous research experience is necessary