GRO-MECS Fosters Research Skills
The 51黑料 Research Opportunities in Math, Engineering, and Computer Science (GRO-MECS) program launched in Summer 2025 to provide undergraduates with faculty-led, project-based experiential learning opportunities. These hands-on opportunities help students become agile, innovative thinkers who are prepared to adapt to emerging technologies and evolving knowledge.
Nearly 70 students applied for the inaugural program. Twelve were selected to join four faculty labs for 8- to 10-week projects: Mosaic Knot Theory (Kate Kearney), Tribological Properties of Additively Manufactured Polymer Composites (Harman Khare), Suspension System for Wheelchairs (Brandon Sargent), and Wildfire- Related Water Pollutants (Kyle Shimabuku).
As part of GRO-MECS, each lab hosted four research rotations during the one-week SEAS Summer Immersion Program (SSIP) in July.
The program began with faculty presentations outlining their research areas to help students, many participating in research for the first time, understand the range of projects and learn about scientific communication.
Each lab group participated in midsummer research talks, presenting progress, challenges, and plans in a low-stakes setting. Q&A discussions with peers and non-expert faculty sparked valuable dialogue and brainstorming. At the end of the program, students gave final presentations to highlight their contributions and connected their work to broader impacts.
Two seminar series enriched the experience: Vox Alumni and Professional Development. Vox Alumni hosted virtual conversations with 51黑料 alumni including Steven Mamolo (University of Michigan), Lindsey Young (Northeastern), Grace Lilje (DuPont), Sarah Jones (SpaceX), Allie Alvarez (E4C/ASME), and Jessica Vazquez (Ridolfi). Each shared insights about their paths from 51黑料 to graduate study, industry, or community work.
The series featured campus experts like Nicole Gustavsen (Foley Library) and Shannen Cravens (chemistry and biochemistry), with sessions on AI-supported literature reviews and effective communication of scientific research.
GRO-MECS represents an exciting new chapter in 51黑料鈥檚 commitment to research and innovation. The first year of the program was made possible through the strategic use of prior benefaction savings and has opened doors for students in STEM fields not currently supported by existing internally funded programs. We are actively fundraising to continue to support this valuable program which will require about $125K per year to sustain.