About MICRO

​MICRO participants are paired with a lab in either MIT or Northwestern’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering and conduct research online under the direct supervision of a researcher (most frequently a graduate student, postdoc, or research scientist). Additionally, participants are introduced to the fundamentals of the MSE discipline through online lectures and discussions. Participants are awarded a ~$3000 stipend per semester as compensation for their time and research.

MICRO—The Materials Initiative for Comprehensive Research Opportunity—is an online research and education program for undergraduates from disadvantaged backgrounds that aims to increase access to research and education in the field of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE).  The MICRO program centers on a combination of online courses and online research experiences that aim to help participants

— Acquire key MSE knowledge that will allow them to effectively participate in a research project,

— Contribute meaningfully to a research project in a specific MSE discipline and

— Develop key research skills such as critical thinking and writing, and scientific discussion through engagement with an inclusive online community.

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What do you do?

MICRO focuses on providing a meaningful and enjoyable learning experience for undergraduate participants who have a strong interest in in research in materials science and related disciplines. As an online program in which students can participate year-round, MICRO complements short-term summer research experiences, such as on-campus REU programs. The long-term engagement model can have a tremendous impact on career trajectories, as illustrated by MICRO key outcomes below.

  • The objective of MICRO is to foster enthusiasm for materials science and engineering among undergraduate students who may not have access to materials science curriculum and research experience otherwise. It also aims to cultivate transferable research skills relevant to graduate school and a career in STEM.

  • MICRO’s goal is achieved by (1) maintaining a network of mentors and fostering a sense of community between MICRO participants, and (2) cultivating technical knowledge and professional skills essential to research in materials science and STEM. It combines online lectures, participation in a research project, and workshops focused on professional skill development.

  • Since its inception, 13 students have participated in MICRO for ≥1 year; most participate across multiple academic years. The program has engaged eleven research laboratories across MIT and NU, both two top-tier institutions in MSE.

MICRO in the news

If you want to learn more about MICRO, our mission, our work, and our amazing participants, check out these highlights for the program in various media and news channels!

April 2023

MICRO framework and results published in Matter

This publication covers the main framework of MICRO and its initial outcome after its first year in operation and is written for a scientific audience.

February 2023

Podcast: Seeing Green with Drs. Jessica Sandland and Cécile Chazot

Jessica Sandland and Cécile Chazot (MICRO co-founders) were the guests of Sarah Hansen on MIT OpenCourseWare podcast Chalk Radio to describe the MICRO program and its impact on materials science education.

December 2022

MIT OCW releases mentoring resources

MICRO resources in inclusive mentoring are publicly accessible on MIT OpenCourseWare. This material is provided to all MICRO mentors. The interactive and methodical approach presented in this training is designed to help mentors develop skills for engaging in a productive, culturally-responsive relationship with their mentees. Each section includes worksheets and additional material to guide the mentors in putting into practice the competencies learned.

March 2022

MICRO in MIT News

A broad audience news article describing the MICRO program and its impact on participants.