Wonderful Institute for Sustainable Engineering -- Research Fellows Program

Wonderful Research Fellows Program

Because a sustainable future won’t build itself.

To that end, WISE-KU is hosting a summer research experience, and we want you to be part of it.

When and where is it?

The first cohort of Research Fellows will begin a 10-week (May 26 to July 31, 2026) immersive research program at the University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS) where they will conduct research and participate in team-based learning.

What are the benefits?

Students will participate in scientific discussions, laboratory tours, scientific seminars, 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 fifteen 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 (for out of state participants only)
• Summer housing on campus where public transportation is readily available
• Meal plan
• State-of-the-art labs
• Safety training
• Team research
• Professional development

When are applications due?

Applications are due by 11:59 PM CST on March 15, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

Who should apply?

Undergraduates majoring in engineering (and related fields)* who are within two years of graduation are eligible to apply (i.e., rising seniors who will graduate by summer 2027 and rising juniors who will graduate by summer 2028).

*Includes, for example, Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering students that are doing research related to sustainable engineering

What is it?

The Wonderful Research Fellows Program is an exciting and intensive summer research experience for curious and motivated undergraduates who are passionate about sustaining our world. Students will work with scholars in the Wonderful Institute for Sustainable Engineering who are developing new technologies and products for solving some of the grand challenges related to energy, water, food, and climate.

Areas of Research

Environmentally sustainable and economical food, energy, and water technologies
Catalysis, separations, and purification utilizing novel materials
Molecular engineering and simulations
Synthesis and characterization of materials
Electrocatalysis and scanning electrochemical microscopy
Phase behavior, gas transport, and hydrates
Supercritical fluids and alternative solvents
Biomass conversion, reaction engineering, and hydrothermal liquefaction