Research In Action

Research In Action

REU 2026
Meet the Injury Science REU Class of 2026
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By Tom Seacrist

I am incredibly excited to welcome the 2026 Injury Science Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program scholars, my first class as primary Principal Investigator! Sponsored by the National Science Foundation, this long-standing exemplar program offers a unique opportunity for undergraduates to engage in injury science across multiple disciplines within the Center for Injury Research and Prevention (CIRP) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

Together with Co-Investigator of the REU Program, Valentina Graci, PhD, we are committed to creating a meaningful and enriching experience for these talented and motivated students from across the country.

Each summer, REU scholars spend ten weeks immersed in hands-on research. Along the way, they receive mentorship from principal investigators and peer mentors, and participate in educational sessions, professional development programming, and networking opportunities designed to support their growth.

Our scholars experience a wide range of topics in injury science, including:

  • Concussion and Brain Health
  • Injury Rehab and Biomechanics Engineering
  • Road Traffic Protection
  • Violence Prevention
  • Traumatic Stress
  • AI in Healthcare Engineering

Introducing the REU Class of 2026

This year’s scholars will collaborate on a variety of impactful projects within the injury science field. We’re excited to learn from their fresh perspectives as they build valuable research and career skills while contributing to CIRP’s ongoing injury prevention efforts.

With more than 300 applications received this year, we are proud to introduce the 2026 Injury Science REU scholars:

  • Drew Annable, Widener University
  • Katie Canzanese, University of Pittsburgh
  • Martha Chavez-Lua, University of Texas at Austin
  • Giovanni Ciro, Rowan University
  • Morgan Daily, Bucknell University
  • Sofiya Ivanova, Syracuse University
  • Kingsley Royal, University of Delaware
  • Hannah Ruohoniemi, Bucknell University
  • Elizabeth Wiese, University of Alabama

Learn more about CIRP’s Injury Science REU Program.

Get to know our Injury Science REU Alumni.

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