What is our logo?
Our MRSEC logo shows the arrangement of atoms at the surface of a crystal. Crystals are made up of layers, or "planes" of atoms, perfectly stacked in an ordered pattern. Because this surface has been cut at a slight angle to the crystal planes, it appears "stepped" (we call this type of surface a vicinal surface). Modern scanned-probe microscopes, such as the STM, allow us to see the atoms at the surface of a crystal, producing images very similar to this one.

University of Maryland

Materials Research Science and Engineering Center

Undergraduate & Graduate Programs

MRSEC Professional Development Travel Awards for Postdocs and Graduate Students

The MRSEC is committed to promoting excellence in science and engineering education and training. An important part of the MRSEC’s mission is to foster inspired students in professional development and to help increase the numbers and diversity of participants engaged in science and engineering academic programs and careers. The MRSEC is helping these students to meet their career goals by supporting their attendance at national conferences to share their research with other members of the scientific community and to network. As one 2009 award recipient stated, “After doing innovative research at the graduate level, it is of great interest to share my accomplishments. Attending this conference is a good opportunity to meet individuals from other universities as well as people who represent various companies that could be potential employers down the road. A lot of good advice is passed back at great conferences such as the NOBCChE National Conference and I would appreciate the opportunity to take advantage of it.” For more information on MRSEC travel awards, please contact us at mrsec@umd.edu or your MRSEC advisor.

MRSEC Professional Development Awards for REU Students

Travel awards for outstanding work during summer research experiences at the UMD MRSEC are available to undergraduate students who would like to share their research and experience at a professional meeting. For more information about the MRSEC REU program visit http://mrsec.umd.edu/REU/ For an application to receive a travel award, contact us at mrsec@umd.edu or your REU advisor.