PIER Community

Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Research (PIER)

The REMAT's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is deeply embedded in its core values and operational strategies. Through mentorship, inclusive activities, student input, and collaborative partnerships, REMAT actively strives to create an environment where all faculty and Next Generation (Next-Gen) researchers can thrive, learn, and contribute to their fullest potential, regardless of their backgrounds or identities. REMAT employs a comprehensive PIER plan that spans various aspects of its operations.

Summer 2025 Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program

Build technical and professional skills and network with peers, while carrying out research at one of the top research institutions. REMAT received DOE supplemental funding to host REU students at each partner institution. Students will receive a stipend, housing, travel to/from the program, plus other benefits. See institute links below for specifics on program dates, eligibility, and application deadlines.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign information and application through I-MRSEC
- Faculty mentors:
  - Jeff Baur (Aerospace Engineering): Polymer composite and additive manufacturing, materials characterization, recyclable thermoset resins
  - Randy Ewoldt (Mechanical Science and Engineering): non-Newtonian fluid mechanics, rheology, soft matter physics, additive manufacturing, experiments using highspeed video and quantitative image analysis
  - Philippe Geubelle (Aerospace Engineering): Multiphysics analysis of composite manufacturing; modeling of frontal polymerization; finite element analysis; machine learning
  - Jeff Moore (Chemistry): monomer, polymer, and thermoset network chemistry; thermoset deconstruction and reactivation; models of frontal polymerization
  - Nancy Sottos (Materials Science and Engineering): circular life cycle for plastics and composities; additive manufacturing; recycling and upcycling of plastics
  - Sameh Tawfick (Mechanical Science and Engineering): bio-inspired materials and manufacturing; 3D printing of novel materials on earth and in space; artificial muscles, ligaments, actuators, synthetic organs, and bio-inspired intelligent robots
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) information and application through MSRP
- Faculty mentors:
  - Rafael Gomez-Bombarelli (Materials Science and Engineering): discovery of materials for energy, sustainability, and health care; thermo- and electro-catalysts to organic and inorganic battery materials; sustainable polymers; and photoswitchable drugs
  - Jeremiah Johnson (Chemistry): creative, macromolecular solutions to problems at the interface of chemistry, medicine, biology, and materials science
University of Utah information and application through REU Program
- Faculty mentor:
  - Matt Sigman (Chemistry): program marries physical organic chemistry techniques and data science to develop new reactions with broad applications; from enantionselective synthesis, to energy-related topics, to biologically-inspired reactions

For information on applying to Harvard University, Stanford University, and Sandia National Laboratories, please send an email to remat@illinois.edu.

- Faculty mentors:
  - Jennifer Lewis (Harvard University, Bioengineering): materials science, stem cell biology, fluid mechanics, 3D printing, and biomanufacturing
  - Yan Xia (Stanford University, Chemistry): catalysis, organic and polymer chemistry, energy-efficient molecular separations, sustainable plastics, electronics, and therapeutics
  - Leah Appelhans (Sandia National Laboratories, Organic Materials): development of polymer materials for 3D printing; photochemistry for polymer and materials synthesis; materials characterization; process monitoring and in situ controls

Center Identity and Common Vision

These core values, are the foundation for PIER initiatives, which include the prioritization of safety, the upholding of uncompromised ethical standards, the promotion of open communication and respect for diverse perspectives, a commitment to inspiration and continuous learning, the fostering of a shared vision, recognition of the strength derived from embracing diversity, and the cultivation of a collaborative "we" ethos that deflects praise onto the team rather than individual recognition. Our common center vision has been actualized through a comprehensive set of activities that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Onboarding

REMAT’s onboarding process ensures that all PIs, postdoctoral researchers, and students are introduced to the center’s core values and DEI commitment through the distribution of an onboarding booklet, setting a welcoming tone from the beginning.

Near-Peer Mentorship

REMAT connects each Next-Gen Researchers with a senior investigator mentor (different from creating valuable connections). This approach not only facilitates meaningful connections but also provides opportunities for engaging with diverse REMAT faculty, enhancing relationships, and fostering community.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Dozens of undergraduate researchers have participated in REMAT research since the center inception. Each of these undergraduates is mentored by a REMAT graduate student or postdoctoral researcher and a senior researcher. Undergrad students interested in research opportunities should contact remat@illinois.edu for further information.

Individual Development Plans (IDPs)

REMAT Next-Gen Researchers are encouraged to create IDPs to guide their academic and career journeys, with faculty mentors providing guidance and support. The establishment of mentorship connections fosters mutual learning and growth, promoting a culture of shared knowledge.

Belonging Activities

The belonging discussions, videos, and inclusion jamboard activities, provide platforms for community members to share their experiences and contribute to a sense of inclusion by sharing what makes them feel included within the REMAT community.