KU REU Biobased PATH - Summer 2026

REU Bio-PATH: Biobased Products and Technologies Hub
Online Application
Chemical & Petroleum Engineering
University of Kansas
Summer 2026

Use this online form to apply to the Summer 2026 KU REU Bio-PATH program.
You will be required to upload a resume/CV, an unofficial transcript, and a short essay (less than 1,000 words).
You will also be asked to submit name and contact information for at least one faculty reference (a second is optional).

Note: If you are also interested in our REU program, IDEA Incubator for Porous Materials, you have the option to submit this application to both. All you need to do is select "yes" to that option in this form and answer one additional short-answer question (less than 200 words).
The IDEA Incubator REU program is currently under review from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for renewal of funds. Applications will be officially open when we receive confirmation from NSF; however, by submitting this form and answering an additional question, you will automatically be considered for this program if/when it becomes available.

When you are finished, click the submit button to submit your application. You won't be able to edit after submitting.

Program Dates: May 26 - July 31, 2026

Priority Deadline (Bio-PATH REU): March 1st, 2026

(Note: If application link is still open, we will still accept your application)

Who should apply?: freshman - senior (current students graduating December 2026 or later)

What majors?: Chemical engineering and related majors (chemistry, biology, physics).

Students from 2-year institutions and community colleges are encouraged to apply.

Why apply? The Chemical Engineering REU Biobased PATH provides an empowering learning and research experience in topics related to biobased products and technologies. 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.

Will financial support be provided? Yes! Students selected for the program will receive a $7,000 stipend + housing + meals + travel costs (up to $500)

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

For more information about the program, please visit: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)

If you have any questions please contact cpereu@ku.edu

Continue below to fill out your application.

Personal Info

Full Name

First Name

Middle Name

Last Name

Permanent Address

Street Number

Street Number 2

City

State

Zip code

Current Address: enter the following information if your current address is different from your permanent address

Street Number

Street Number 2

City

State

Zip code

Contact Information

Phone Number

- -

University email address

Permanent Email address (not your school email)

Gender

Academic Information

University and Major

College/University

University City

University State

Major

Undergraduate level starting Fall 2026

Sophomore

Junior

Senior

Academic Standing

Overall GPA

Chemical Engineering GPA

Major GPA (if not Chemical Engineering)

Graduation Date (mm/yyyy)

Citizenship Status

US Citizen

Permanent Resident

Not Applicable

Are you an international student on a non-resident visa?

Research Interest areas: Select top two preferences

First Choice

Second Choice

Are you currently involved with or working in a research lab

If yes, what is your role in the lab

In 200 words or less - What is it about this REU program that excites you?

Would you like your application to be considered also for the REU IDEA Incubator for Porous Materials?

This will not affect your consideration for the Bio-PATH REU. (Please see additional information about the IDEA Incubator REU program at: Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU))

If you answer yes to the previous question, please answer this question
In 200 words or less - What role might art play in engineering and innovation?

Please upload a 1-2 page resume, in PDF format

Please upload an unofficial transcript

Personal essay 1,000 words or less

Describe your career goals, post-graduation plans, and your motivation for pursuing research in sustainable 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.

Faculty References

Please provide contact information below for a faculty member at your current college/university who is acquainted with your laboratory work and coursework. They will receive an email with instructions for submitting a letter of recommendation on your behalf. One letter of recommendation is required for this application. A second letter of recommendation is optional.

Please provide the contact information for one or two faculty members below.

First Faculty Reference

First Faculty Reference Name

First Faculty Reference Email

Second Faculty Reference

Second Faculty Reference Name

Second Faculty Reference Email

Clicking "Submit Form" will submit your application. You won't be able to edit your application after final submission.