NSF REU Site: Translational Research in Behavior Science
West Virginia University Anticipated Dates: June 4 – July 30, 2027
The Translational Research in Behavior Science Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) is a paid summer program in which rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors receive high-quality research experience and mentorship to prepare them for pursuing careers in behavior science or related fields.
Location
The Department of Psychology
West Virginia University
Life Sciences Building
Morgantown, WV, 26505
Participant Support
- Stipend ($700 per week; $6,300 total)
- Food stipend and lodging included
- Reimbursed travel to/from WVU
Who should apply?
- Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors as of Summer 2027*
- Majoring in psychology or a closely related field
- Having a grade point average of The REU Site: Translational Research in Behavior Science2.8 or above in their psychology undergraduate coursework
Eligibility
Per NSF: Eligible students are those who are enrolled in an undergraduate degree program (part-time or full-time; baccalaureate or associate degree).
Students who have already received their undergraduate degree prior to the program end date are ineligible.
REU participants must be citizens, nationals, or permanent residents of the United States per NSF guidelines.
*Email Dr. Joslyn if you have questions about eligibility.
Application Materials
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Personal statement essay
- Letter of recommendation
- Preferably from an instructor who is familiar with your work in psychology or other scientific topics
- The application form includes questions about academic experience and achievements, future career plans, and optional demographic information
Contact for More Information
Ray Joslyn Ph.D., BCBA-D, Ray.Joslyn@mail.wvu.edu
or
Kathryn Kestner Ph.D., BCBA-D, Kathryn.Kestner@mail.wvu.edu
The REU Site: Translational Research in Behavior Science at West Virginia University is a summer
program for undergraduate student research, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF)
(Award #2447228).
Abstract: This project is funded by the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Sites program in the SBE Directorate. It has both scientific and societal benefits and integrates research and education. The REU Site for Translational Research in Behavior Science provides aspiring behavior scientists with high-quality research experience and mentorship. This project supports the development of a skilled workforce by fostering interest and participation in translational research in experimental psychology and preparing students for careers in science, education, and healthcare. REU participants conduct laboratory research in behavioral psychology and neuroscience. Research conducted for this project addresses questions relevant to NSF priority areas, including translational research and the science of public safety. Specifically, REU participants will conduct translational research in behavioral pharmacology, behavioral neuroscience, relapse prevention, prosocial behavior, behavioral approaches to injury rehabilitation, crime prevention and investigation, and improving the efficacy of behavioral interventions. Students present their work at public research symposia and are trained to communicate findings to scientific and general audiences. Their studies advance knowledge of behavioral processes and their application to socially significant challenges. Recruitment is open to NSF-eligible undergraduate students focusing on reaching students from institutions with limited research opportunities.
This project aims to foster interest and participation in experimental psychology and expand the pool of skilled researchers in behavior science. The objectives include: (1) Providing research opportunities to students from primarily undergraduate-serving institutions, (2) Involving students in impactful research that advances behavior science, (3) Improving students’ technical research skills (4) Developing students’ scientific and broader communication skills, (5) Retaining students in behavior science education and careers. Each year, a cohort of 8 REU participants works with faculty research mentors from WVU’s Department of Psychology. Students attend a 3-day training, conduct a research project with their mentor, participate in weekly professional development seminars, and disseminate their work. Student projects contribute to refining behavioral theories with implications for understanding basic processes and applied outcomes.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
