# REU Site: Dare to BE FIRST - Biomechanical Engineering Foundations in Impactful Research, Science & Technology

> **NSF 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Delaware (DE) · $414,858

## Abstract

This Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site, “Dare to BE FIRST: Biomechanical Engineering Foundations in Impactful Research, Science, and Technology,” will provide undergraduate students with mentored summer research experiences in biomedical engineering at the University of Delaware. Biomedical engineering increasingly depends on quantitative skills such as modeling, computation, data analysis, and experimental design, yet many undergraduates have limited access to research environments where these skills can be developed through hands-on practice. This project addresses that need by engaging students in research at the interface of engineering, biology, and medicine, with an emphasis on how quantitative approaches can be used to understand and improve human health. The project serves the national interest by helping develop a skilled STEM workforce prepared to advance science, improve health and well-being, and contribute to U.S. prosperity through biomedical innovation. Recruitment will focus on students with limited access to research opportunities, while keeping the program open to all eligible U.S. students.

Each year, the REU Site will support 9 undergraduate students in a 10-week, full-time summer research experience in the Center for Biomechanical Engineering Research (CBER)-affiliated laboratories across the University of Delaware. Students will work on interdisciplinary bioengineering projects spanning cellular and molecular mechanics, tissue biomech

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2548398
- **Awardee organization:** University of Delaware (DE)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** T72NHKM259N3
- **PI:** Xin Lu
- **Primary program:** 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** RESEARCH EXP FOR UNDERGRADS, HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, REU SITE-Res Exp for Ugrd Site
- **Estimated total:** $414,858
- **Funds obligated:** $414,858
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2026 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2548398

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2548398, REU Site: Dare to BE FIRST - Biomechanical Engineering Foundations in Impactful Research, Science & Technology. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2548398. Licensed CC0.

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