Texas A&M CyberHealthGIS Application Information

Application Process

The application process for the TAMU CyberHealthGIS REU Site is based on a highly competitive, nationwide search of talented undergraduate students. Previous coursework in geography, GIS, computer science, health, and/or related disciplines is highly desirable, but not required. We also encourage students with skill sets in GIS, GPS, programming, and/or quantitative data analysis. There is no minimum GPA requirement, but preference will be given to students with a 3.0 or higher GPA and who demonstrate significant potential for succeeding in a collaborative inter-disciplinary research experience. No previous research experience is required, just an interest in getting involved!

Targeted Disciplines

The TAMU CyberHealthGIS REU seeks to build a multi-disciplinary community of students from geography and GIS, computer science, health, and related disciplines. Those from the list of disciplines below will likely find this program most appealing, though we welcome applications from students across any and all relevant disciplines:

  • Geography & Spatial Science
  • Geographic Information Science
  • Computer Science
  • Electircal Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Public Health
  • Pre-Med
  • Environmental Programs
  • Sociology
  • Planning
  • Biology
  • Other STEM-infused disciplines

Commitment to Broadening Participation

The TAMU CyberHealthGIS REU Site is deeply committed to including students from all backgrounds, and will strive for inclusion of students from underrepresented groups, including women, returning non-traditional students, veterans, minorities, persons with disabilities, and first-generation college students. We especially encourage students from institutions that lack similar undergraduate research programs (e.g., non-research institutions, liberal arts schools, tribal colleges, community colleges, and historically black colleges and universities).

CyberHealthGIS Instructions and Deadline

The priority application deadline is Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 5 PM EST.

Applications will continue to be accepted until Thursday, March 15, 2018 at 5 PM EST.

Access the TAMU CyberHealthGIS REU Application Form on the Texas A&M Web-Based Application

A complete application, includes:

  • An application form through the Texas A&M Web-Based Application,
  • Submission of a personal statement (limited to 3 double-spaced pages) and unofficial transcripts submitted through the application form, and
  • Submission of two reference letters from faculty, employers, or mentors submitted through the application system (your references will be emailed a link where to upload them). The reference letter should be sent directly by the writer of the letter, not the REU student applicant.

Applications materials should be addressed to Dr. Daniel W. Goldberg (REU Principal Investigator). Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Potential candidates may be contacted for a follow-up Skype interview within one month of the priority application deadline.

Importance of the Personal Statement

The personal statement is the most important component of a student’s application, so please give it some significant time and thought. The Personal Statement (limited to 3 double-spaced pages) should include: 1) a description of your interest in research, including how your participation in an interdisciplinary geography/health/computing research project might fit into these interests; 2) an explanation of how you think technology and geography can address health issues in the US and worldwide; and 3) a discussion of your potential post-graduation plans.

The best personal statements will have a strong personal voice and demonstrate how your coursework and/or real-world experiences have prepared you for success in a research-based REU program. When we read your statement we want to hear your passion about geographic, computing, or health research and how you think you research can make an impact to improve health and well-being. Please be sure to proofread your statement and consider having a faculty member at your home university/college provide you with helpful feedback prior to submission.

Decision Timeline

Within one month of the priority application deadline (by March 15, 2018), the PI and Co-PI's will contact a short-list of applicants for Skype interviews. We will choose a cohort of at least 10 students for the REU, and create a ranked alternate list of 4 additional students.

If you have any questions about the TAMU CyberHealthGIS REU Site application process, please contact Dr. Daniel W. Goldberg at daniel.goldberg@tamu.edu or by phone at 979-862-3551.