Summer 2026 RET & REU Program Overview

Iowa NSF EPSCoR is pleased to celebrate the accomplishments of the Summer 2026 Chemurgy 2.0 cohort. Through the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) and Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) programs, two undergraduate students and three STEM educators spent six weeks building research skills, engaging in professional learning, and connecting scientific discovery to meaningful classroom experiences.

Participants worked alongside faculty and graduate student mentors in active research labs four days each week and gathered for professional learning sessions on the fifth day. This summer’s program centered on voice and agency, encouraging participants to ask questions, embrace productive struggle, and consider how students can take greater ownership of their learning.

2026 Chemurgy 2.0 Participants

REU: Greta Musgrave, University of Northern Iowa
Greta investigated silicon nanosheets and their potential applications in computer devices, including how the materials respond to different environments. Her experience also introduced her to systems thinking and the importance of understanding how individual components contribute to a larger scientific challenge. As she begins student teaching, Greta plans to incorporate more real-world environmental investigations and opportunities for student choice into her future science classroom.
View Greta’s poster.
Read Greta’s reflection.

REU: Sage Perkins, Northern Arizona University
Sage expanded her knowledge of biochemistry while finding confidence in asking questions, sharing ideas, and contributing her own perspective in the lab. She also found a strong community among fellow participants, mentors, and educators. The experience reinforced the importance of creating classroom environments where curiosity is valued, questions are welcomed, and every learner feels heard.
View Sage’s poster.
Read Sage’s reflection.

RET: Brenna McIlvoy, Collinsville High School, Illinois
Brenna stepped into the role of researcher in Dr. Panthani’s lab, gaining hands-on experience with silicon nanosheets and the challenges that come with learning unfamiliar techniques. Her summer experience offered a meaningful reminder of the uncertainty students may feel as they learn something new. She will bring that perspective back to her classroom by creating more student-centered opportunities for choice, independence, and growth.
View Brenna’s poster.
Read Brenna’s reflection.

RET: Erin McBroom, Pleasantville High School
Erin’s work combined her interests in computer science and chemistry as she validated enzyme data and developed CatLas, a machine-learning tool designed to help map protein interfaces. Her experience reinforced the value of open-ended inquiry, iteration, and learning through setbacks. Erin plans to apply these lessons by designing more problem-based investigations that allow students to formulate questions, test ideas, and learn from unexpected results.
View Erin’s poster.
Read Erin’s reflection.

RET: Luizviminda Dinglasan, John Apangalook School, Alaska
Luizviminda explored sustainable bioplastics and gained experience operating laboratory equipment used to process, mold, and test materials. Her research will help inform locally relevant, inquiry-based lessons for students in Gambell, Alaska, including investigations of biodegradable materials, environmental sustainability, and Arctic conditions. She also plans to create more collaborative learning opportunities that ensure every student has a voice.
View Luizviminda’s poster.
Read Luizviminda’s reflection.

The Chemurgy 2.0 program strengthens connections between cutting-edge research and STEM education by preparing participants to carry scientific curiosity, collaboration, and authentic inquiry into their future classrooms and careers. Iowa NSF EPSCoR thanks the Iowa State University faculty, mentors, staff, and partners whose guidance made this summer’s experience possible!