NSF PREC undergraduate scholar program

The partnership between Prof. Mark Walker and Prof. Yi He's group at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and the NSF Center for Genetically Encoded Materials (C-GEM) aims to enhance the sense of belonging and retention of historically excluded students in chemistry and STEM fields. The program recruits early-career UNM undergraduates for summer research internships at prestigious institutions, offering them hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and insights into scientific research careers. To address the financial needs of many UNM students, the partnership provides competitive salaries for research activities and funds for presenting at relevant conferences. Peer mentorship is also a key component, further strengthening the students' sense of belonging in STEM. Additionally, this initiative supports research in the production of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), focusing on developing Bacillus subtilis as a production platform and using multiscale molecular dynamics simulations to understand enzyme substrate selectivity. This research aims to expand the potential of peptides beyond the 20 canonical amino acids.

The instruction to apply for the summer program in 2024 is included below!!

No prior research experience is required to participate!

Applications are due February 1st, 2024.