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USDA Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates (REEU) Undergraduate Scholars Internship Program
The USDA REEU program prepares undergraduate students for careers in sustainable biomanufacturing through research, education and extension activities. The project focuses on developing a knowledgeable, engaged and empowered underrepresented Hispanic workforce.
About the Program
Student Mentoring and Research Training in Biomanufacturing Technology (SMaRT-BioTech) brings together an interdisciplinary team with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, engineering, economics and education. In collaboration with three R1 research institutions, the project provides undergraduate education, research and extension experiences focused on converting biomass into biofuels, platform chemicals and biopolymers.
The project serves students from four Hispanic-Serving Institutions:
- The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Dodge City Community College
- South Texas College
- Southern Adventist University
The project is designed to mentor and train 10 Hispanic students each year, reaching 50 students over five years. Participants take an active role in defining research challenges, performing experiments, analyzing data and presenting their findings.
Through hands-on learning, students build critical thinking and collaboration skills while applying their knowledge to real-world problems. The program helps prepare a workforce that can use biomanufacturing technologies to address challenges in food and agriculture.
Research Modules
Student research is organized into five areas:
- M1: Biomass deconstruction
- M2: Saccharification and fermentation
- M3: Metabolic engineering
- M4: Process modeling
- M5: Economic and environmental evaluation
Program Activities
The program's three objectives connect foundational learning, summer research and career preparation:
Spring Seminar Series
A 10-week seminar series introduces fundamental and advanced knowledge of biomanufacturing technologies.
Summer Research and Extension
Students participate in eight weeks of research and extension activities across the five modules, with specific research goals guiding their work.
Fall Symposiums and Career Workshops
An 11-week fall program of symposiums and career workshops gives students opportunities to showcase their research findings and advance their career development.
Application Resources
The following documents are for the 2025–2026 recruitment cycle. For information about future opportunities, eligibility and application deadlines, contact Dr. Michael Persans.
Contact Us
Dr. Michael Persans
Professor
USDA REEU Program Support
School of Integrative Biological & Chemical Sciences
Email: michael.persans@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-665-7323
Edinburg Campus
Science Building, ESCNE 4.629
1201 W. University Dr.
Edinburg, TX 78539
