DSA Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) – Data Science and Analytics Thrust

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DSA Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

Day: February 27, 2025 Browse: 440

1. Introduction

The Data Science and Analytics (DSA) Thrust at HKUST(GZ) is pleased to introduce the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program. This program provides students with practical research experience in data science, machine learning, AI, and analytics.

2. Program Overview

2.1 Program Tracks

The DSA-REU program offers flexible research opportunities for students and faculty. Students can participate in various formats:

Full-Year Research Program (8–12 months) allows students to balance research with their academic studies.
Summer/Winter Internship (8-10 weeks) is a more intensive short-term opportunity.
Custom Research Duration may be set based on faculty needs and student availability.

In line with the University's Work-Study Program guidelines, the workload is designed to be flexible and will not interfere with students' studies. Students may work up to 8 hours per week (40 hours per month), with the possibility of additional hours during breaks based on project needs.

2.2 Eligibility

Undergraduate students in Year 2 or above are given priority.
Year 1 students may apply if they show strong necessary background knowledge and motivation.
For Year 3 and 4 students, only DSA students will be considered.
A minimum Cumulative Grade Average (CGA) of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
Basic skills in Python, C/C++, R, SQL, or similar tools are preferred.

3. Faculty Participation

Faculty mentors will guide students throughout their research. They will propose research projects, train students in necessary techniques, and supervise their progress. Mentors are responsible for providing feedback, tracking attendance and work hours, and encouraging research dissemination, such as presenting findings at conferences.

4. Program Timeline

The program follows a flexible schedule based on faculty availability and project needs. The timeline includes several key phases:

Phase	Description
Faculty Mentor Registration	Faculty mentors submit research project proposals.
Work-Study Position Setup	Approved research projects are designated as work-study positions, and the available research assistant positions will be announced to all undergraduate students via email.
Research Exposure & Meetings	Faculty mentors conduct pre-application research exposure sessions to introduce prospective applicants to the research topics and work environment.
Student Applications & Selection	Students submit the REU application form, along with a CV and academic transcript. Faculty mentors review applications and select students (max. 2 students per project) based on suitability and research interests.
Research Agreement	Selected students and faculty mentors sign the Research Agreement Form, formalizing participation and research commitments.
Monthly Progress Checks	Students provide regular updates on the research progress during monthly meetings with faculty mentors.
6-Month Symposium	Faculty mentors assess and provide feedback on student research progress.
Final Report Submission	Students submit final research reports for mentor review.
Presentation & Publication	Students have the opportunity to submit research reports or papers to journals/conferences and compete for DSA research awards. Award recipients will receive travel grants and funding support from the DSA Thrust for international academic conference participation.

5. Resources

Financial Support: Students will be paid through the University’s Work-Study Program. The hourly rate is RMB 25 (pre-tax), and students are paid based on verified work hours.