Princeton Research Experience for Undergraduate Students

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student presenting at an REU
Student presenting as part of a Research Experience for Undergraduates at Princeton

The Computer Science Department at Princeton University invites students to apply to participate in a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU). This program is designed to broaden participation in computer science research and to challenge assumptions about who can become a computer scientist or engineer. Our goal is to foster a more inclusive and welcoming research community.

The 2026 program will run from June 1 to August 2 in person and on campus in Princeton, New Jersey. All eligible students are welcome to apply!

We seek students who are curious about research and encourage applications from students of all majors. While prior exposure to computer science is helpful, research experience is not required.

Students selected for the program will spend the summer at Princeton University conducting faculty-mentored research in computer science. Participants will work closely with a Princeton faculty member and gain hands-on experience in the research process.

Important Dates

  • Application opens January 5, 2026
  • Application deadline February 15, 2026 and is now CLOSED. 
  • Notifications sent week of March 2, 2026
  • Residential program dates June 1, 2026-August 2, 2026 

Eligibility and stipend

  • Participants must be U.S. Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents; 18 years of age or older
  • Current Princeton students are not eligible
  • Cannot graduate with a bachelors degree before the end of REU in August 2026
  • Must be attending a two-year or four-year accredited state or community college/university in New Jersey
  • Completed at least 60 college credits
  • Open to all eligible students regardless of identity such as race, ethnicity, sex or other protected characteristics 
  • Participants will receive a $750 weekly stipend; a housing and meal plan are included

How to apply

The application is now CLOSED for summer 2026. 

Questions? Email ch4867@princeton.edu

Faculty mentors

Summer 2026 Cohort

Vanessa Ortiz 

I’m a senior at Montclair State University majoring in Computer Science. My career goal is to pursue opportunities in cybersecurity and data analysis, with a focus on governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) and digital policy. I’m especially interested in how technology can be used to improve security and decision-making at both organizational and global levels. Outside of academics, I’m a martial arts coach and an active member of the Women in Technology club, robotics club, and gymnastics team. I also enjoy hiking, paddle boarding and rock climbing.

Mehaer Chhabda

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Face of Mehaer Chhabda

I'm Mehaer Chhabda, a junior at Rutgers University–New Brunswick studying Computer Science and Data Science. My career goal is to pursue a master’s degree and continue exploring machine learning, particularly privacy-preserving and responsible AI systems, including techniques for algorithmic fairness and transparency. Outside of academics, I enjoy being outdoors and trying new activities with friends, such as hiking, kayaking, and playing volleyball.

Dhyan Sankar

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Face of Dhyan Sankar

I'm a freshman at Rutgers University, majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics. After graduation, I plan to pursue a master's degree and continue developing my research experience in machine learning and its applications to real-world problems. In the future, I hope to build a career that combines research and industry, developing intelligent systems that are more efficient, accurate, and socially impactful. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing sports with my friends, reading, and watching movies.

Hannah Hollosi 

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Headshot of Hannah Hollosi

I’m a sophomore at Rutgers University–New Brunswick majoring in Computer Science and Data Science, with a minor in Critical Intelligence Studies. I hope to pursue a Ph.D. and continue exploring my passion for AI and its impact on society. I’m excited to see my theoretical knowledge applied in the real world, making an impact on people’s everyday lives. Outside of academics, I enjoy spontaneous travel and spending time exploring new coffee shops and local spots with friends.

Tri-An Nguyen 

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Headshot of Tri-An Nguyen

I’m a junior at Rutgers University majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics. After graduating, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science to research the dynamics and outcomes of human-AI and multi-agent interactions. Outside of my studies, I enjoy skiing, hiking, and reading fantasy and science fiction.

Dean Warrington Jr.

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Headshot of Dean Warrington Jr.

I’m currently a junior at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Artificial Intelligence. After graduation, I plan to obtain a Masters in A.I. to expand my knowledge and understanding of A.I. Driven by a desire to change the world using my skill set, I aim to pursue a career where I apply AI to healthcare to enhance precise diagnostics and early disease detection. Outside of academics, I stay active by playing volleyball and spend my downtime reading or watching science fiction.