NSF-funded program supports diverse group of undergraduates in biomechanical engineering

Even accomplished researchers know that luck can play a role in scientific breakthroughs.

That was one important message shared by Babatunde A. Ogunnaike, dean of the College of Engineering at the University of Delaware, in a special seminar for undergraduate researchers on July 5.

“When you do research, keep your eyes open,” he said. “In many cases, researchers get lucky — that’s how Teflon was discovered.”

Five weeks later, the students in that audience were presenting the results of their own research at a one-day symposium highlighting the work of some 400 students from more than 40 institutions.

The group who heard Ogunnaike’s message, participants in the Dare to BE FIRST Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU), learned some lessons of their own along the way. Read more.