Frequently asked questions
Q) Who is eligible for NU Nano Scientist?
A) The program is open to incoming first-year students in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences.
Q) When should I indicate interest?
A) Interested students should email Dr. Veronica Berns (veronica.berns@northwestern.edu) anytime during the summer and no later than Aug. 1. Students should also rank Science and The Scientist as their first-choice seminar during first-year seminar selection.
Q) Do I need previous research experience?
A) No. The program is designed to welcome students at all experience levels. Students are encouraged to participate with or without a background in chemistry or research.
Q) Do I need to major in chemistry?
A) No. The program is especially relevant for students interested in chemistry, materials, energy, sustainability, nanotechnology, and lab-based STEM research, but it does not require students to commit to a chemistry major.
Q) How are students selected?
A) Students are selected based on their interest and experience. The program is looking for a cohort of students who are excited about chemistry, nanomaterials, nanotechnology, and hands-on research.
Q) When are students matched with research groups?
A) Students are matched partway through fall quarter. They learn about available projects through presentations and Q&A sessions, then rank their choices. The program works to match each student as closely as possible with one of their top choices.
Q) Do these seminars count toward my course load?
A) Yes. Each seminar is a 1-credit, letter-graded course that counts as one of your four WCAS courses during the fall and winter quarters.
Q) What are the courses?
A) Students take Chem 105, Science and The Scientist, in the fall and Chem 105, Writing for Scientists, in the winter.
Q) Is this a pre-med program?
A) No. This is not primarily a pre-med or biomedical research program. Students interested in biology or medicine are welcome if they are also interested in chemistry, materials, nanotechnology, or hands-on lab research.
Q) Is summer research guaranteed?
A) Yes. Students in the cohort are guaranteed a summer research experience.
Q) How much is the stipend?
A) Students receive a $4,000 stipend to help with living expenses.
Q) How long is the summer research experience?
A) The summer research experience is approximately eight weeks and is full-time.
Q) Where do students live during summer research?
A) Students should email Dr. Berns with questions about summer logistics, including housing.
Q) Do I have to commit to research for four years?
A) No. NU Nano Scientist is not a binding four-year commitment. However, students who continue in research after their first year can build a strong foundation for fellowships, graduate school, and future research opportunities.
Q) How many students are selected?
A) The cohort is limited to 15 students.
Q) Is the program competitive?
A) Yes. Because the cohort is small and the summer research experience is guaranteed, students should treat NU Nano Scientist as a selective opportunity. Selection is based on student interest and experience. The program is looking for a cohort of WCAS students who are excited about chemistry, nanomaterials, and nanotechnology.
Q) What happens after the summer?
A) Students may continue research in their current lab or explore a new lab. They are also encouraged to apply for academic-year undergraduate research grants through the Office of Undergraduate Research.
Q) Who should I contact with questions?
A) Students interested in the program should email Veronica Berns, PhD, associate professor of instruction in the Department of Chemistry, at veronica.berns@northwestern.edu.
