The illicit economy, encompassing economic activities that are illegal or operate outside the formal, regulated and legal framework of a given country, is estimated in the billions in the United States alone. South Dakota State University (SDSU), in collaboration with the University of South Dakota and South Dakota Mines, is addressing this complex issue through the Collaboration to Combat Crime (C3) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program.
The C3 REU aims to combat the cyber, physical, and social aspects of the illicit economy through an interdisciplinary research approach. It responds to a critical need for sustainable research infrastructure that trains the next generation of researchers to characterize and disrupt this illicit activity.
This 10-week summer program offers students the opportunity to work on mentored, multi-level research projects, where they gain the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for graduate studies and future careers in security-focused fields. The program incorporates technical seminars, professional development, and a STEM communication course to ensure a well-rounded research experience.
Participants will conduct transformative research in various fields, including:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Machine Learning and Predictive Modeling
- Mathematics
- Industrial Engineering
- Material and Metallurgical Engineering
- Behavioral Science
The program runs from June to August. It offers a $7,000 stipend, with funding for room and board (meals).
The deadline to apply is today, March 7, 2025, but if you are interested and need an extension, please reach out to Dr. Rachel Willand-Charnley and Dr. Brian Logue.