Blog post written by Hunter Amo
Undergraduate research is a great way to gain hands-on experience and bridge the gap between what you learn in a classroom and what you learn in the real world. Alongside other research opportunities, UM-Dearborn offers students the ability to participate in its yearly Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program.
According to the SURE webpage, the program aims to “provide students with the opportunity to participate in individual research projects; to learn about the life of an active researcher; to learn about research-oriented careers; and to develop a long-term mentor relationship.”
To provide some more insight about undergraduate research and SURE, human-centered engineering design student Nick Choi and Professor Georges Ayoub kindly offered a glimpse into what their summer research at SURE is about.
The Research
Professor Georges Ayoub has always been interested in how different materials hold up against time and environmental conditions. This interest was deepened while renovating his 120-year-old historic home in Detroit, which led to his current research project titled “Durability of Biocompatible Thermoplastic Elastomers Under Extreme Environments.”
Nick Choi is working alongside Professor Ayoub to test the strength of biocompatible thermoplastic elastomers (soft, flexible materials used in medical and engineering settings, such as catheters, glucose monitor patches and prosthetics) when exposed to harsh elements. This research is important because it contributes to the development of safe and effective medical equipment and engineering systems.
Did you know? A common example of a biocompatible thermoplastic elastomer is the wristband of fitness watches!
Why SURE?
The opportunity to get hands-on research experience drives many students to participate in the SURE program. Not only is it important to study a topic that is akin to your major, but it’s a great way to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.
“Because Dr. Ayoub is the founder of the Human-Centered Engineering Design (HCED) program and teaches courses related to my field of study, I was particularly interested in learning from his expertise,” Nick explained. “The opportunity to participate in SURE has allowed me to apply concepts learned in class, develop new technical skills and gain valuable insight into the research process.”
Professor Georges Ayoub, who has been involved with SURE since it began three years ago, also shared his perspective on SURE 2026.
“I strongly believe that undergraduate research is one of the most transformative educational experiences a student can have,” Professor Ayoub said. “Through research, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills, while gaining confidence in their abilities as engineers and scholars. Programs such as SURE help cultivate curiosity, creativity, and a mindset of lifelong learning, qualities that are essential for success in both industry and academia.”
So, is undergraduate research worth it?
By now, you might be wondering if undergraduate research is something you might benefit from. Undergraduate research may sound intimidating from the outside, but it can also be one of the most exciting additions to your college experience.
Nick highlighted how SURE has impacted his experience as a first-year college student.
“I have built meaningful relationships with faculty mentors and graduate students who have helped guide my academic and professional development,” he said. “For students who are curious, motivated, and interested in applying their knowledge beyond coursework, undergraduate research can be one of the most rewarding experiences of their college education.”
Still unsure about undergraduate research? This quote from Professor Georges Ayoub may provide some clarity:
“Undergraduate research at UM-Dearborn is highly collaborative, hands-on and engaging. It allows us to apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems while learning new experimental, analytical and technical skills. Research also provides a different learning experience than traditional coursework. Instead of solving predefined problems, students are challenged to ask questions, investigate unknowns and contribute to generating new knowledge. This experience helps develop critical thinking, creativity and professional skills that are valuable in both industry and graduate studies.”
More information about SURE and other undergraduate research opportunities can be found on their webpage.
