Astronomy at the University of Wyoming

2013 Program Dates

Start date: May 20th or May 28th.

Program Overview

The University of Wyoming and the National Science Foundation sponsor a 10-week summer REU program focused on galaxy evolution.  Each student will be trained to use our 2.3 meter and 0.6 meter telescopes and to analyze astronomical data.  Frequent seminars will cover recent breakthroughs in astronomy, computational techniques, preparing for graduate school, best practices for written and oral presentations, and responsible research conduct.  The program culminates with a poster presentation at the January meeting of the American Astronomical Society. 

Support

Each participant will be awarded a stipend of $450/week (before tax), convenient dormitory housing and meal plan, and travel funds for both getting to and from Laramie and the American Astronomical Society meeting held in Washington, DC in January 2014. Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible.

Research projects

Each summer our cohort of REU students will work as a team to study a specific aspect of galaxy evolution. During the summer of 2013, our program will focus on discovering and characterizing massive binary star systems. Students will become expert observers at our 2.3 meter telescope on nearby Mt. Jelm, learn how to process and analyze astronomical spectra and imaging data, and techniques in scientific programming.  Please click here for more information.

Location

Situated between two mountain ranges and lying at an elevation of 7,200 feet, Laramie's location provides excellent outdoor opportunities in the Rocky Mountain West including hiking, fishing, camping, and climbing. Laramie's unique cultural flavor combines elements of the rugged rural west with the cosmopolitan aspects of an intellectual center.  By car, Laramie is approximately two hours from Denver.

Application procedure

All application materials, including two letters of reference, may be emailed to Ms. Emmalee Petty at physics@uwyo.edu. If sent via Snail Mail please address to:

Click here for application.

Application deadline: February 15, 2013

Initial offers will be made by March 1.