MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Two students from Middle Tennessee State University have been selected for competitive National Science Foundation-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates, or REU, programs at universities across the country this summer.

“These experiences provide opportunities for students to conduct advanced research alongside leading faculty mentors while building confidence, independence, and professional skills,” said Jamie Burriss, director of MTSU’s Undergraduate Research Center.

The students will conduct research through programs supported by the National Science Foundation. REU programs provide undergraduate students with opportunities to participate in advanced research alongside faculty mentors while preparing for graduate school and future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, known commonly as the STEM fields.

Dalyn Wachala, a mechatronics engineering major, will participate in a robotics-focused REU program at West Virginia University.

“To be honest, my first reaction was pure shock,” Wachala said after learning of his acceptance. “I knew how competitive the program was, and I wasn’t sure if I would be selected. Once it finally sank in, I was just incredibly happy and grateful.” 

Additionally, Zahraa Al Rubaye, a biochemistry major and Honors student, was selected for the Collaborative Approaches among Scientists and Engineers, or CASE, REU program at Auburn University.

Al Rubaye said she is excited to gain firsthand experience conducting professional academic research while developing new technical and analytical skills.

“I’m excited to develop and refine my research skills to a more professional level,” she said. “I cannot wait to learn about what it means to conduct research in an academic and professional field, as well as contribute to the development of a new project.”

She said the opportunity will help prepare her for future research environments and strengthen her long-term academic goals.

“I think the research opportunity will solidify my passion in research and further my interest in pursuing a dual doctorate degree in research and the medical field,” she said.

Wachala said he is eager to expand his knowledge of robotics research while also experiencing campus life away from home for the first time.

“My main goal is to learn as much as possible about robotics, so I am very excited for the research itself,” he said. “On a personal level, I am also looking forward to experiencing dorm life. I have commuted from home during my time at MTSU, so staying on campus at WVU this summer will be a brand-new experience for me.” 

He credited involvement in MTSU’s robotics club with sparking his interest in the field and building the confidence to pursue research opportunities.

“The spark really started when I joined the robotics club here at MTSU,” Wachala said. “Getting to immerse myself in a real project for the first time was a feeling I truly loved.” 

“These students represent the very best of MTSU’s growing undergraduate research community,” said Burriss. “Their selection into nationally competitive NSF-funded REU programs speaks to their talent, dedication, and readiness to contribute to meaningful research experiences beyond our campus.”

For more information about undergraduate research opportunities at MTSU, visit the MTSU Undergraduate Research Center webpage.

— Robin E. Lee (robin.e.lee@mtsu.edu)