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Foundational Interdisciplinary Research Experience

Through hands-on research and mentorship from Saint Louis University School of Science and Engineering faculty, you’ll be immersed in the world of research as an undergraduate student through the Foundational Interdisciplinary Research Experience (FIRE). 

Faculty Member Marv Meyers and a student work in the Meyers Lab at the SSE.
A student and professor perform chemistry research in one of the School of Science and Engineering's labs. 

As an independent academic research experience, you’ll receive academic credit for participating in interdisciplinary research as part of the FIRE program. You’ll progress through a sequence of experiences that includes introductory exposure to research and entrepreneurship, sustained faculty-mentored active research, and opportunities to present your work through university research showcases and professional conferences. Plus, you’ll have the option to translate research discoveries into entrepreneurial ventures through FIRE’s collaboration with SLULaunch, a student-driven incubator at SLU’s Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship.

FIRE Program Benefits

As a student in the FIRE program at the School of Science and Engineering, you will:  

  • Get involved in authentic, research-based work as an undergraduate student.
  • Experience a progressive course structure from research foundations to real-world application.
  • Collaborate across disciplines.
  • Be equipped with the technical and professional skills needed to be successful after graduation.
  • Incorporate an entrepreneurial mindset into your research experiences.
  • Have the opportunity to present your work at conferences and showcases.
  • Be part of an SSE faculty-led project with the potential to enter SLULaunch and pitch to community partners.  
  • Do work that has a broader societal impact.