Over the summer research period, in addition to learning as part of a research group, participants attend a series of informal seminars covering research and related topics, such as preparing for graduate school and presenting research. These seminars are intended to foster discussion among REU students and faculty. The core research experience takes place in the context of research groups working at the University's research facilities. Categories of possible research include Astronomy, Astrophysics, Cosmology, Optics, Quantum Optics, Quantum Information Systems, Particle Physics, Plasma Physics and Planetary Science.