BOARD # 296: Research Experiences for Undergraduate Students in Computational Sciences and Engineering through an NSF Funded REU Site

Vassilios Tzouanas; Henry Clyde Foust; Dvijesh J Shastri; Emre Yilmaz; Arash Rahmatian; Mahmud Hasan

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Conference: 2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition
Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Publication Date: June 22, 2025
Start Date: June 22, 2025
End Date: August 15, 2025
Conference Session: NSF Grantees Poster Session I
Tagged Topics: Diversity and NSF Grantees Poster Session
Page Count: 6
Permanent URL: https://peer.asee.org/55661
Download Count: 3

Paper Authors

biography

Vassilios Tzouanas University of Houston-Downtown

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Vassilios Tzouanas is a Professor and Chairman of the Computer Science and Engineering Technology department at the University of Houston- Downtown, in Houston, Texas.

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Mahmud Hasan is an Assistant Professor in the Computer Science and Engineering Technology (CSET) Department at the University of Houston-Downtown. Dr. Hasan earned a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Louisiana State University (LSU), Master of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech (VT), and Doctor of Philosophy degree in Engineering Science (Mechanical Engineering) from Louisiana State University (LSU). His research interests focus on heat, fluid, structure, renewable and alternating energy (fuel cell, wind turbine) modeling and simulation, chemical spill, including CFD and FEA analysis. His professional experience includes technical positions with oil and gas companies, plastic products and cement manufacturing, gas turbine power plant, and consulting. He holds Professional Engineering (PE) license with two states (Texas and Louisiana). He also holds CSP which is the highest safety certification from BCSP. He is a member of ASME, ASSP, and ASEE.

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Abstract

Abstract In alignment with the mission of the National Science Foundation to advance scientific progress, enhance national health, prosperity, and welfare, and strengthen national defense, this Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site in Computational Sciences and Engineering provides a diverse group of students with exposure to various challenges in the field. Participants engage in solving these challenges through the application of methodologies derived from cybersecurity, data analytics, machine learning, process automation, structural engineering, and data-driven safety management. The program offers students direct, hands-on research experience that addresses significant societal issues. Such practical involvement not only enhances students' scientific problem-solving capabilities but also fosters an understanding of the scientific method as a tool for investigating technical challenges. Furthermore, this application of theory to real-world problems is instrumental in solidifying students' interest in STEM fields, which is crucial for improving retention and graduation rates at minority-serving institutions and providing upward mobility for students from underrepresented communities. Through comprehensive research activities, year-long faculty mentoring, and continued engagement via research presentations and publications, the program aims to significantly increase minority students' interest in STEM education. The opportunities provided through this initiative serve as foundational steps in cultivating undergraduate students into proficient scientists and researchers.

This paper presents a summary of the experiences and lessons learned from establishing the REU site, including the development of a dedicated website for promotion, student recruitment strategies, and the implementation of research and extracurricular activities. Additionally, it includes reflections on student projects and feedback. The insights gained from this initiative can serve as valuable guidance for similar future programs designed to engage students in undergraduate research.

Citation
Format

Tzouanas, V., & Foust, H. C., & Shastri, D. J., & Yilmaz, E., & Rahmatian, A., & Hasan, M. (2025, June), BOARD # 296: Research Experiences for Undergraduate Students in Computational Sciences and Engineering through an NSF Funded REU Site Paper presented at 2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition , Montreal, Quebec, Canada . https://peer.asee.org/55661

TY  - CPAPER
AB  - Abstract
In alignment with the mission of the National Science Foundation to advance scientific progress, enhance national health, prosperity, and welfare, and strengthen national defense, this Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site in Computational Sciences and Engineering provides a diverse group of students with exposure to various challenges in the field. Participants engage in solving these challenges through the application of methodologies derived from cybersecurity, data analytics, machine learning, process automation, structural engineering, and data-driven safety management. The program offers students direct, hands-on research experience that addresses significant societal issues. Such practical involvement not only enhances students&#39; scientific problem-solving capabilities but also fosters an understanding of the scientific method as a tool for investigating technical challenges. Furthermore, this application of theory to real-world problems is instrumental in solidifying students&#39; interest in STEM fields, which is crucial for improving retention and graduation rates at minority-serving institutions and providing upward mobility for students from underrepresented communities. Through comprehensive research activities, year-long faculty mentoring, and continued engagement via research presentations and publications, the program aims to significantly increase minority students&#39; interest in STEM education. The opportunities provided through this initiative serve as foundational steps in cultivating undergraduate students into proficient scientists and researchers.

This paper presents a summary of the experiences and lessons learned from establishing the REU site, including the development of a dedicated website for promotion, student recruitment strategies, and the implementation of research and extracurricular activities. Additionally, it includes reflections on student projects and feedback. The insights gained from this initiative can serve as valuable guidance for similar future programs designed to engage students in undergraduate research.

AU  - Vassilios Tzouanas
AU  - Henry Clyde Foust
AU  - Dvijesh J Shastri
AU  - Emre Yilmaz
AU  - Arash Rahmatian
AU  - Mahmud Hasan
CY  - Montreal, Quebec, Canada 
DA  - 2025/06/22
PB  - ASEE Conferences
TI  - BOARD # 296: Research Experiences for Undergraduate Students in Computational Sciences and Engineering through an NSF Funded REU Site
UR  - https://peer.asee.org/55661
ER  -