MEMS Facilitating Initial Research Experiences (FIRE) Program

MEMS Facilitating Initial Research (FIRE) Program

Deadline to Apply: February 16 Open to Rising Juniors and Seniors in: MEMS FIRE Facilitating Initial Research Experiences Undergraduate Summer Research Paid 10-Week Program Program Runs from May 26 - July 31 Designed with Mentorship and Workshops to Train Students New to Research Applications Open Decemter 8 $7000 stipend plus housing/travel assistance Mechanical Engineering Engineering Science Materials Science

Applications are now closed for the 2026 program.

 

 

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The program is designed to encourage research experiences for undergraduates that haven't previously participated in research. It is a paid 10-week summer program that includes an original research project in a research lab in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science (MEMS) at Pitt. In addition to the research project, participants will receive mentorship from graduate students and other students who are active in research and network with faculty. Additionally, we hold weekly workshops to improve skills in areas that will help students succeed in graduate school, such as: writing technical papers, giving technical presentations, dealing with implicit bias and imposter syndrome, and more. The program is open to rising junior/senior undergraduates of any ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ability, veteran status, socioeconomic status, and religion. However, participation is limited to US citizens and permanent residents. 

 

Timeline for 2026 FIRE Program Applications Open: December 8, 2025 Applications Close: February 16, 2026* *We will follow a rolling admissions format after this date. Students who apply after this date will be considered for the program if spaces are available. Letter of Recommendation Due: February 23, 2026 Decisions Made: Rolling/Latest in Mid-March 2026 Program Start: May 26, 2026 Program End: July 31, 2026

 

EXAMPLES OF RESEARCH PROJECTS

Instead of students searching to find research opportunities, this program offers a list of research projects for a student to select their preferences. View the research project list below to see examples of projects offered to students in previous years.

Students who are selected for the program will rank their top three research topic areas and be assigned to one of these.

HOW TO CONTACT US

Questions? Email us at: mems_fire@pitt.edu