Kyle Mandapat - Guam EPSCoR

February 17, 2026February 18, 2026

UOG’s Guam NSF EPSCoR E-CORE and E-RISE programs launch Graduate Research Assistant recruitment

Graduate research assistants are currently being recruited by the Guam NSF EPSCoR’s E-CORE and E-RISE programs. Both programs are open to graduate students and include stipends amongst other benefits. GRAs get hands-on research experience and work hand in hand with faculty mentors.

The Guam National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR) at the University of Guam (UOG) has announced a new recruitment cycle for Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) under its E-CORE and E-RISE initiatives, offering tuition support, stipends, and professional development opportunities for eligible graduate students.

Both programs are seeking full-time graduate students in STEM fields to support research efforts that advance scientific infrastructure and environmental understanding on Guam.

E-RISE: Advancing Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research

The E-RISE (Enhancing Research Infrastructure and Scientific Education) program is recruiting GRAs for interdisciplinary research focused on Guam’s coral reef ecosystems. The initiative targets graduate-level students interested in tropical marine biodiversity.

Research areas include:

Benthic marine biodiversity assessments using specimen collections
Underwater surveys employing photogrammetry and molecular genetics
Experimental ecophysiology and growth studies of habitat-defining species such as corals and algae

The E-RISE program provides stipend and tuition support to selected students.

“The E-RISE program is excited to welcome new applicants for this GRA cycle,” said E-RISE principal investigator Bastian Bentlage, Ph.D. “This is a great opportunity for students to dive deeper into Guam’s marine biodiversity and become part of a dynamic research team contributing to understanding and responsible stewardship of our natural resources. We look forward to train and mentor our students here in Guam in those areas.”

According to E-CORE co-principal investigator Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., E-RISE scholars are also provided comprehensive mentoring during the program.

Students with questions about E-RISE may contact program assistant Kikue Roberto at robertokm@triton.uog.edu.

E-CORE: Supporting STEM Graduate Scholars

The E-CORE (Optimizing Research Infrastructure on Guam) program is also recruiting Graduate Research Assistants. The scholarship is designed for full-time graduate students in STEM disciplines who do not currently receive grant-funded support.

In addition to possible tuition and stipend assistance, E-CORE scholars will participate in graduate mentoring seminars aimed at strengthening professional development skills.

Terry Donaldson, Ph.D., is the principal investigator for the E-CORE grant and has seen the success of students through his work as the PI on one of the largest research grants in UOG history, Guam NSF EPSCoR’s GECCO, which brought over 22 million dollars to the university.

“This GRA program will provide opportunities to students that may not have had funding support before,” said Donaldson. “This program goes far beyond the funding though, with the opportunity for mentorship and professional development really helping to elevate our growing talent here on Guam.”

For additional information about E-CORE, students may contact program assistant Franki Guerrero at guerrerof@triton.uog.edu.

Application Information

The initiatives are part of Guam NSF EPSCoR’s broader mission to advance geographic diversity in STEM and strengthen research capacity at UOG and its partner institutions, including Guam Community College.

Eligible graduate students seeking financial support and research experience are encouraged to apply by visiting guamepscor.uog.edu.

EPSCoR_ECORE_20260205_GRA26FRecruitmentFlyer_V4

February 17, 2026February 17, 2026

Guam NSF EPSCoR announces $50,000 seed funding opportunity for collaborative research

Guam NSF EPSCoR’s Collaborations for Optimizing Research Ecosystems (ECORE) project is inviting proposals for its 2026–2027 Seed Funding Grant, offering $50,000 awards to support innovative, hypothesis-driven research across the island.

The ECORE initiative—formally titled “Optimizing Research Infrastructure in Guam (ORIG)”—aims to strengthen Guam’s research ecosystem by funding collaborative projects involving University of Guam faculty, post-doctoral fellows, and other researchers within the local community.

Proposed projects must align with at least one of five priority areas identified in the Guam Science and Technology Plan: Aquaculture; IT/Data Science/Cybersecurity; Energy; Natural Resources/Sustainable Development; and Additive Manufacturing.

Each selected project will receive $50,000 and must be completed within one year of the award date. Grants are anticipated to begin in June 2026.

Proposals will be evaluated based on their relevance to emergent science, research quality, and potential to generate significant outcomes, including future external grant submissions and peer-reviewed publications.

Applicants are required to submit a five-page proposal outlining the research hypothesis or problem, project alignment with the Guam Science and Technology Plan, anticipated outcomes, and a timeline. Additional required materials include a one-page project summary, references cited, and an itemized budget with justification

Completed proposals must be submitted by March 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Chamorro Standard Time to Jan Dirige, Project Administrator, at jtdirige@uog.edu, with the subject line “Guam ECORE Seed Funding Proposal.”

The seed funding program is part of Guam NSF-EPSCoR’s broader mission to advance geographic diversity in STEM and build sustainable research capacity in the region.

For more details on the funding opportunity, please visit guamepscor.uog.edu or refer to the attached RFP.

February 11, 2026February 17, 2026

UOG announces extension of CIS2026 in partnership with NMC in Saipan

Partners from the University of Guam and Northern Marianas College are pleased to announce the addition of several activities to the CIS2026 agenda that will take place in Saipan. In collaboration with 500 Sails, NMC has prepared sessions and events aimed to continue the discussion of island sustainability from the conference which will be held on Guam. Pictured are UOG CIS and Sea Grant Associate Director for Operations and Development Fran Castro, Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., NMC President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, Ed.D., NMC-CREES Interim Dean Patricia Coleman, Ph.D., and UOG CIS and Sea Grant Associate Director for Communications and Community Engagement Kyle Mandapat.

The University of Guam (UOG) has announced an extension of the 17th University of Guam Conference on Island Sustainability (CIS2026), expanding the event through April 26 with the addition of two days of programming in Saipan, further strengthening its partnership with Northern Marianas College (NMC).

Originally scheduled to conclude on Friday, April 24, 2026, the conference’s extension reflects growing regional interest and a shared commitment between UOG and NMC to address sustainability challenges unique to island communities across Micronesia.

The additional Saipan-based programming will bring together educators, researchers, policymakers, students, and community leaders from Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to engage in discussions focused on climate resilience, environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, renewable energy, and sustainable development.

The decision to extend the conference underscores the importance of regional collaboration in addressing island sustainability issues that transcend political and geographic boundaries.

“We have a long standing partnership with Northern Marianas College, and we are so excited to continue building that bond through opportunities like this,” said University of Guam President and CIS2026 co-chairperson Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA. “CIS has always been about island sustainability, and we are excited to now include our CNMI family into one of UOG’s premier annual events.”

By hosting sessions in Saipan, the conference aims to increase access and participation for CNMI-based stakeholders while reinforcing the importance of sustainability research and education.

The collaboration builds on a long-standing relationship between UOG and NMC that emphasizes workforce development, academic exchange, and community-driven research.

“NMC is ready to continue our support for sustainability throughout the Marianas and Pacific through this partnership with UOG CIS and Sea Grant,” said NMC president Galvin Deleon Guerrero, Ed.D. “What a phenomenal way to not only begin a new chapter for our partnership in the Marianas, but highlight our recent Sea Grant status here at NMC with our closest Sea Grant partners in Guam.”

The Conference on Island Sustainability, now in its 17th year, has become a flagship event for the University of Guam, serving as a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and practical solutions to the environmental and social challenges facing island communities.

“The expansion of the conference highlights our growing partnership with the Northern Marianas College and our shared responsibility to advance solutions grounded in island knowledge and regional cooperation,” said Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant. “The CNMI Green Growth Initiative is making great strides in sustainability innovation. It will be an exciting experience for CIS2026 participants to join us in the beautiful CNMI.”

Events in Saipan will be organized by the NMC and 500 Sails and will include a cultural seminar, canoe experience, Sea Talks, and a Managaha Conservation Experience.

CIS2026 is presented by the University of Guam CIS & Sea Grant, Guam Power Authority, Guam Southern Soil and Water Conservation District, Guam NSF EPSCoR,The Nature Conservancy and the Office of the Governor.

For registration details including the new NMC and Saipan offerings interested attendees can visit uog.edu/cis2026.

January 21, 2026February 5, 2026

UOG sustainability partners unite to welcome students at orientation with comprehensive outreach experience

Members from programs were on hand to explain and promote the offerings to new students to UOG. The sustainability group included representatives from over 10 programs within UOG CIS and Sea Grant and Guam NSF EPSCoR.

Ella Fedenko from the UOG CIS and Sea Grant turtle project and Franki Guerrero from Guam NSF EPSCoR provide incoming students with information on their projects and potential fellowship opportunities. The two programs were among the many represented by the group.

Students had hands-on exposure to many native plants through the presentations from the UOG CIS and Sea Grant Natural Resources Division and members its Island Conservation Lab.

The University of Guam’s commitment to sustainability and student opportunity was on full display during the recent UOG New Student Orientation event organized by the UOG’s student services team, where a coalition of campus programs came together to present a unified, student-focused welcome.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant), NSF Navigating Home, Guam NSF EPSCoR, the SEAS Islands Alliance, and Guam Green Growth collaborated to host a comprehensive booth designed to introduce new and returning students to a wide range of academic, research, and fellowship opportunities centered on sustainability and island resilience.

Rather than operating as separate programs, the partners intentionally created a shared space that highlighted how their efforts intersect—connecting environmental research, workforce development, Indigenous knowledge, and community-based solutions. Staff and student representatives were on hand throughout the event to answer questions, distribute informational materials, and encourage students to explore pathways that align with their academic interests and career goals.

“Our goal was to make it easy for students to see the bigger picture,” said Gabby Topasna from UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “These programs are deeply connected, and together they offer students hands-on experiences, paid fellowships, research opportunities, and mentorship focused on sustainability issues that matter here on Guam and across the region.”

Students visiting the booth learned about opportunities ranging from undergraduate research and internships to fellowships and professional development programs supported by the National Science Foundation. Programs such as Navigating Home and Guam NSF EPSCoR emphasized pathways for students to engage in place-based research, while the SEAS Islands Alliance and Guam Green Growth showcased regional partnerships and applied solutions aimed at building a more sustainable island future.

“The student experience is a large part of what makes our programs successful,” said Franki Guerrero from Guam NSF EPSCoR. “Showing them the opportunities that lie within our programs that not only help them learn and get that hands-on experience but also help them deal with some of the costs via our stipends, really goes a long way in helping them navigate through this time of their lives.”

The collaborative booth also served as a platform to highlight ongoing sustainability initiatives at UOG, reinforcing the university’s role as a leader in addressing climate change, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience in island communities.

Programs represented include:

UOG CIS and Sea Grant Turtle Program
Guam NSF EPSCoR (E-Core and E-Rise)
Micronesia Challenge
Guihan for Guahan
Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW)
UOG CIS and Sea Grant Natural Resources (Island Conservation Lab)
Guam Green Growth Action Framework
G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub
NSF Navigating Home & SEAS Islands Alliance
UOG CIS and Sea Grant Community Engagement

For many students, the booth was their first introduction to the breadth of sustainability-focused work taking place on campus. Organizers said the response underscored the value of presenting a coordinated message that connects academic programs with real-world impact.

As UOG continues to expand its sustainability and research initiatives, presenters noted that events like student orientation are critical moments to engage students early, helping them see how their education can contribute to meaningful solutions for Guam and the wider region.

January 16, 2026January 21, 2026

UOG recruiting members for the sixth season of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is gearing up for its sixth season with applications now open at guamgreengrowth.org. Those interested in sustainability and the emerging green economy are welcomed to apply. Field work, research modules and community work are all a part of the upcoming season’s curriculum.

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps will participate in a 5-month long workforce development program that will provide training and skills for the emerging green economy. Full time positions are available and require a 40 hour a week commitment. Applications are open now.

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is a workforce development program that will feature focus areas such as agriculture, aquaculture, island beautification, circular economy, invasive species, fisheries research and more.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) are happy to announce that applications are now open for the sixth season of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC), continuing their robust workforce development plan that has graduated nearly 100 local workers who have developed skills for the emerging green economy.

The G3CC offers participants hands-on experience in conservation, sustainability, and climate-related projects that support Guam’s natural resources while building job-ready skills. Since its launch, the program has served as a pathway for residents of all backgrounds and ages to gain practical training, professional mentorship, and paid service opportunities aligned with Guam’s green economy goals.

“The G3 Conservation Corps is our flagship workforce development program preparing local workers for careers in the green economy. Its success has led to expansion into four additional companion programs,” explained Austin Shelton Ph.D., the director for UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “This Corps is a great launchpad for a new career path, a refresher, or for you to work on something you are already passionate about in sustainability. We invite all interested community members to apply today.”

Members of the Conservation Corps work on projects that may include watershed restoration, invasive species management, circular economy, food security efforts, aquaculture, agriculture, and community education. The program emphasizes leadership development, teamwork, and civic engagement, preparing participants for future careers in environmental fields.

Annania Nauta Kemp, the lead for the community engagement program has seen great results in past cohorts and looks forward to further growth for the island community.

“We have had people join straight out of high school who are now very comfortable in their career path thanks to the network and experience this program builds,” explained Kemp. “At the same time, we have retirees who are ready for their next adventure and accountants who just wanted a change of scenery come out of the program very well, too. If you feel the call to serve your community and are ready to learn and get down in the dirt with us, this can be a great way for you to shape your future.”

Now entering its sixth cohort, the program reflects growing interest and sustained momentum in Guam Green Growth’s broader mission to balance economic development with environmental protection and social well-being.

“This program really changed my perspective on sustainability and how we can make things better for our people of Guahan,” said Joseph Certeza, a G3CC Season 1 graduate who now works as a part of the program team. “This program taught me a lot, and helped me to gain not only the skills, but also the confidence to move forward in the eras of my life.”

Applications for the sixth cohort are open now and available online at GuamGreenGrowth.org. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early and review eligibility requirements and program details on the website.

Selected team members will receive a bi-weekly stipend of $1300 and continuing education credits from the University of Guam through the Global Learning and Engagement program. Applicants must be 18 years or older, open to indoor and outdoor work, and able to work full-time at 40 hours a week.

To apply for the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps and to learn more about other G3 initiatives, visit GuamGreenGrowth.org.

January 9, 2026February 17, 2026

Call for Proposals Opens for 2026 UOG Conference on Island Sustainability

The University of Guam is now accepting presentation proposals for its 2026 Conference on Island Sustainability, scheduled to take place April 20-24 at the Hyatt Regency Guam. Abstracts can be submitted for oral presentations, poster presentations, or workshops at uog.edu/cis2026.

The University of Guam is now accepting presentation proposals for its 17th Conference on Island Sustainability, scheduled to take place April 20-24, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

Under the theme “Illuminating the Path to Prosperity,” the annual conference will bring together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing island communities in the Pacific region and beyond.

Prospective presenters have until January 17, 2026, to submit abstracts for consideration. The conference organizing committee is seeking proposals that explore innovative approaches to sustainable development, climate resilience, economic growth, and environmental stewardship in island contexts.

“We are excited to welcome the latest research and actions advancing sustainability solutions from around the world for CIS2026,” said Austin Shelton Ph.D., director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant). “Last year’s conference featured over 190 presenters including representatives from over 21 states, countries and islands and of course amazing talent from Guam.”

The week-long event, which welcomed over 1200 participants last year, has become a cornerstone gathering for those working on sustainability issues specific to island environments, where geographic isolation, limited resources, and climate vulnerability create distinct challenges that require specialized solutions.

Registration for the conference is now open through the university’s website at uog.edu/cis2026, where interested participants can also find detailed submission guidelines and information about presentation formats.

The University of Guam has hosted the Conference on Island Sustainability as a platform for advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration on critical issues affecting island territories and island regions worldwide.

For more information about abstract submission requirements and conference registration, visit uog.edu/cis2026.

October 23, 2025November 17, 2025

Guam Green Growth Makerspace to hold weaving and laser engraver workshops to close out October

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub technician Justin Cruz works with attendees of a laser engraver workshop at the CHamoru Village campus. The group will host another laser engraver workshop to close out October's training schedule.

Participants in a weaving workshop at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub learn the CHamoru Skills of creation with the coconut leaves. A katupat weaving workshop, compete with celebratory kadu, will be help this month at the CHamoru Village campus.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub has announced two workshops to be hosted at their CHamoru Village campus showcasing both cultural knowledge and high-tech innovation.

Fiber Laser Engraver Workshop

The fiber laser engraver workshop, to be held on Thursday, October 23rd from 5pm to 7:30pm, is geared toward the future of local entrepreneurship and design.

This modern, technical training will introduce attendees to the sophisticated world of fiber laser engraving, a process used for permanent marking and customization on materials like metals, plastics, and various industrial components. This skill is highly sought after in modern fabrication, manufacturing, and personalized gift industries.

“The workshop is perfect for designers, small business owners looking to expand their product offerings, or anyone interested in learning how to operate powerful, precision technology,” explained G3 Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte. “Mastering this tool provides a direct pathway into high-value, digitally driven production.”

Finanåguen Tinifok Katupat Weaving Workshop with Kadu

On the other end of the maker spectrum this weaving workshop, which will be held on Thursday, October 30th from 5pm to 7:30pm, focuses on the art of weaving the katupat, a diamond-shaped pouch traditionally woven from coconut leaves to hold rice. More than just a craft, tinifok (weaving) is a vital part of CHamoru heritage, blending sustainability with a functional art form.

Led by CHamoru weaver Martha Tenorio, the workshop provides hands-on instruction in this generational skill. It is a powerful chance for attendees to actively engage in cultural preservation, ensuring this traditional knowledge and the intricate, natural beauty of katupat continue to thrive.

According to Abby Crain the G3 Circular Economy Coordinator, along with the weaving showcase, participants will be treated to some kadu, or CHamoru Stew, to eat with the rice cooked in the katupat.

These two events highlight a strong community focus on holistic development. By valuing the knowledge passed down through generations—like the weaving of the katupat—while simultaneously developing modern digital manufacturing skills, the island community builds a resilient, prosperous, and culturally secure future.

Interested participants are encouraged to secure their spots soon as capacity is limited for these specialized sessions. Registration can be completed digitally at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/guam-green-growth-circular-economy-makerspace and more information about the G3 Makerspace is available at guamgreengrowth.org.

October 10, 2025December 15, 2025

UOG’s G3 Makerspace hosts 3D printing workshop that connects goals with skills

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub’s Shawn Garcia recently led a 3D Printing workshop at the group’s CHamoru Village location. The workshop is the latest from the G3 Makerspace that aims to bring the benefits of 3D printing and additive manufacturing to local makers and business owners.

The Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub hosts regular workshops in their space in Hagåtña which include 3D printing, weaving, textiles, sewing, laser cutting and more. Full workshop schedules can be found on guamgreengrowth.org.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Research Education and Extension Fellow Napu Blas assists during the workshop at the G3 Makerspace. The 3D printing workshop welcomed participants from many age groups including students and local makers.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub (G3 Makerspace) recently hosted a 3D Printing Workshop, offering the community hands-on experience with cutting-edge additive manufacturing technology. The event was a part of the G3 Sustainable September lineup, a month-long series dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the island.

The workshop, designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of 3D modeling and prototyping, demonstrated how this technology fits into the island’s circular economy model. Attendees learned how digital design translates into physical objects, exploring the process from conceptualization to the final print. This practical knowledge empowers participants to create functional items while minimizing waste.

The session was led by Shawn Garcia, who guided attendees through the use of the G3 Makerspace’s specialized equipment. Garcia emphasized the potential of 3D printing to utilize recycled materials, aligning directly with the G3 Makerspace’s mission to transform waste streams into valuable resources. The workshop highlighted the Makerspace’s commitment to building a local green workforce capable of driving innovation.

“Events like this 3D printing workshop are really important because they bridge the gap between the sustainability goals and tangible, actionable skills,” said Garcia. “By teaching and sharing these skills, we are working to grow a community of creators who can develop local solutions for local challenges.”

The G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub, located in the CHamoru Village, serves as a resource center for entrepreneurs, artisans, and students looking to integrate circular practices into their work, further strengthening Guam’s commitment to a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Monthly workshop schedules are available along with registration access at www.guamgreengrowth.org and on the G3 Makerspace’s official Instagram @guamgreengrowthmakerspace.

June 30, 2025June 30, 2025

Students board the Nautilus vessel before Marianas Trench expedition

SeaGrant 20250505 EVNautilusTour 78 1024x683 1

Students from the University of Guam’s (UOG) National Science Foundation Inclusion across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science (INCLUDES), Navigating Home and Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) programs recently embarked on an extraordinary journey of scientific discovery, touring the state-of-the-art research vessel, Nautilus Live. This unique opportunity provided future island scientists with an invaluable firsthand look into cutting-edge ocean exploration and research.

The three capacity building programs operate of out the UOG and are dedicated to broadening participation and fostering STEM education and aims to empower the next generation of marine and environmental scientists. The tour of Nautilus Live perfectly aligns with this mission, offering a tangible connection to the deep-sea research that shapes our understanding of the ocean.

Franki Guerrero of the UOG Capacity Building Team works closely with the students through their journeys and fellowships.

“I enjoyed seeing the students have a chance to really visualize the kind of science that is at work around our region,” said Guerrero. “They are taking away a lot of great information and inspiration from this tour.”

Operated by the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET), Nautilus Live is renowned for its telepresence-enabled expeditions, allowing scientists and the public worldwide to participate in real-time deep-sea exploration. The vessel is equipped with advanced remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and mapping systems, enabling the discovery and documentation of new marine species, geological formations, and historical artifacts on the seafloor. The vessel will be conducting an expedition to the nearby Marianas Trench.

During their immersive tour, UOG students explored various sections of the vessel, including the control room where ROVs are piloted, the data labs where scientific observations are processed, and the communication hubs that transmit live feeds from the ocean depths. They had the chance to interact with the ship’s crew and scientists, gaining insights into the diverse careers available in oceanography and marine science.

The visit to Nautilus Live underscores the University of Guam’s commitment to providing its students with unique, impactful learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. By connecting with leading global research initiatives like the Ocean Exploration Trust, UOG continues to cultivate a capable and engaged workforce ready to address the pressing environmental challenges facing island communities.

April 24, 2025April 24, 2025

UOG opens applications for summer math programs

$The Guam NSF EPSCoR Summer Math programs are open for applications. The Summer Math Research Assistant and Summer Math Research Experience is open for students from Sophomore, Junior, Senior and Graduate levels.$

The University of Guam (UOG) has exciting summer research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students passionate about mathematics through two distinct programs supported by the National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR). Applications are now being accepted for both the Summer Math Research Assistant and the Summer Math Research Experience programs.

These programs offer a unique chance for motivated students to engage in cutting-edge mathematical research under the guidance of UOG faculty. Participants will gain invaluable hands-on experience, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and contribute to ongoing research projects with real-world applications.

Summer Math Research Assistant Program:
This program is open for college seniors and recent graduates looking to immerse themselves deeply in a specific research area. Summer Math Research Assistants (SMRA) will work closely with a faculty mentor on an existing research project, contributing to data collection, analysis, modeling, and potentially even manuscript preparation. This intensive experience provides a strong foundation for future graduate studies or careers in STEM fields.

“This is an incredible opportunity for undergraduates to get their feet wet in the world of mathematical research,” said Leslie Aquino PhD, a mathematics professor at UOG and a faculty member for the Guam NSF EPSCoR program. “Students will not only learn advanced mathematical concepts but also develop the crucial skills of collaboration, communication, and independent inquiry.”

Summer Math Research Experience Program:
The Summer Math Research Experience (SMRE) offers a broader introduction to mathematical research. College sophomores and juniors will work in small groups on focused research questions, exploring different areas of mathematics and their applications. This program emphasizes collaborative learning and provides a supportive environment for students to develop their research interests.

According to Guam NSF EPSCoR project associate Franki Guerrero, participants will receive various benefits including a stipend.

“The Summer Math Research Program is more than just an academic experience, it’s a chance to explore STEM in action, and build lasting mentorships,” explained Guerrero. “In addition, SMRE students receive a $4,800 stipend, and SMRAs earn $ 5,400 for the 8 weeks they will be in the program, making it both educational and financially supportive.”

Interested students are encouraged to visit the Guam NSF EPSCoR website at guamepscor.uog.edu for information about each program. Applications are being accepted until May 9, 2025.