REU Site: Training Students to Use Computer Simulations as Research Tools

这是一份面向本科生的研究体验现场助学金。该奖项允许本科生在积极从事研究的教职员工的监督下参与材料领域的研究项目。招收学生的重点是女性，来源是匹兹堡大学、卡内基梅隆大学、查塔姆学院、西顿·希尔学院和卡洛学院。后三所是匹兹堡地区的女子学院。在暑期项目中取得成功的学生如果愿意，可以在学年期间继续非正式参加。该奖项最多支持六名学生。这项研究的目标是让学生们创建可以对复杂分子流体的行为进行建模的“电子实验室”。所使用的模型包括用蒙特卡罗计算机模拟聚合物薄膜在表面和界面上的聚集和吸附，并随后将聚合物链的微观结构与薄膜的宏观性质联系起来。该项目允许学生从现有的模型开始，然后进行独立研究，在教师的监督下，他们自己生成模型。该计划加强了当前的研究活动，并增加了受过科学培训的个人数量。希望这一实践经验将成为一种刺激，吸引和留住具有高度天赋的学生进入教学和研究职业生涯。

This is a Research Experiences for Undergraduates Site grant. The award permits undergraduate students to participate in a research program in the materials field under the supervision of faculty members actively engaged in research. Recruitment of students places strong emphasis upon females, with sources being University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Chatham College, Seaton Hill College, and Carlow College. The latter three are female colleges in the Pittsburgh area. Students who succeed in the summer program can then continue to participate informally during the academic year if they desire. The award supports up to six students. The goal of the research is to allow students to create "electronic laboratories" in which they can model behavior of complex molecular fluids. Models used include Monte Carlo computer simulations of aggregation and adsorption of thin films of polymers on surfaces and interfaces, and subsequently to relate the microstructure of the polymer chains to the macroscopic properties of the films. The program lets students begin with existing models and progress to independent research where they generate models themselves under the supervision of a faculty member. The program enhances current research activities as well as adding to the number of scientifically trained individuals. It is hoped that this hands- on experience will serve as a stimulus to attract and retain highly-gifted students into careers in teaching and research.