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

这是一个研究经验的本科生网站补助金。 该奖项允许本科生参加一个 在材料领域的研究计划的监督下， 教师积极参与研究。 招募 学生们非常重视女性， 匹兹堡大学卡内基梅隆大学查塔姆 学院、西顿山学院和卡洛学院。 后者 匹兹堡地区有三所女子学院。 的学生 在夏季计划中取得成功，然后可以继续参加 如果他们愿意的话，可以在学年期间非正式地参加。 该奖项 最多支持6名学生。 研究的目的是 允许学生创建“电子实验室”， 可以模拟复杂分子流体的行为。 使用的模型 包括蒙特卡罗计算机模拟聚集， 聚合物薄膜在表面和界面上的吸附， 并随后将聚合物的微观结构 链的宏观性质的薄膜。 程序 让学生开始与现有的模型和进展， 独立研究，他们自己生成模型， 对一名教员的监督。该方案增强了电流 研究活动以及增加 受过科学训练的人。 希望这能帮助- 经验将成为吸引和留住人才的刺激因素 高天赋的学生从事教学和研究工作。

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.