Modeling and Computations for Complex Systems

NSF REU/RTG Site: Modeling and Computations for Complex Systems
Award #1840260

June 2 - July 17, 2026

 

Faculty Mentors: Alejandro Aceves and Joe Camp

 

Program Overview: This unique program will showcase students how engineering and mathematics (mathematics and engineering) go hand in hand when advancing our understanding and research on topics of  current interest. Join one of two tracks focused on either either mathematical modeling or applied computing and engineering.

 

Program Benefits:

  • Competitive summer compensation 
  • On-campus room and board included during both the Taos course and the Dallas REU portion
  • For SMU and non-SMU students

Eligibility:

  • U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Must not have completed your undergraduate degree before January 2026
  • Ability to focus on this program during these 7 weeks

 

Track 1: Mathematics – Modeling and Analysis of Complex Systems

Track 1 is designed for undergraduate students in mathematics and closely related disciplines, with a focus on the theoretical foundations of complex systems. From June 2 - July 17 at SMU in Dallas, Texas, students engage in mentored research emphasizing mathematical modeling, analysis, and computation for complex and interconnected systems, including dynamical systems and networked phenomena arising in science and engineering. This track is fully research-focused and does not include a formal course component.

For more information, contact Prof. Alejandro Aceves at aaceves@smu.edu.

Apply for Track 1

 

Track 2: Engineering and Computer Science – Swarm Systems and Autonomous Learning

Track 2 is designed for undergraduate students in electrical engineering, computer science, and related engineering disciplines, emphasizing applied computation, systems integration, and experimental research in complex systems. From June 2 - June 18 in Taos, New Mexico, students participate in the SCALE course on Swarm Coordination and Autonomous Learning, an immersive experience, for which students may earn 3 hours of academic course credit (tuition responsibility of the student; one 3-credit-hour course: $5,430). Following the course, from June 19 - July 17, Track 2 students transition to SMU’s Dallas campus, merging with Track 1 participants to form a single REU cohort, collaborating on mentored research projects that integrate mathematical foundations with engineering and computational implementation.

For more information, contact Prof. Joe Camp at camp@smu.edu. 

Apply for Track 2

 

Application Deadline: March 27, 2026