Within the last three years, POLYMAT has been hosting students from University of Alabama as part of the program “Macromolecular and Polymer Research Experience in San Sebastian” (IMPRESS). This program, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and housed by the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering of the University of Alabama (UA) has been coordinated by Prof. Jason E. Bara (UA) and managed by Prof. David Mecerreyes (POLYMAT). This International Research Experience for Students (IRES) has recruited 21 undergraduate students from the @univofalabama along the 3 program years to participate in 8-week research experiences focused on macromolecular and polymer materials under the supervision of researchers from POLYMAT and the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU).

Polymers were selected as the theme for this IRES Site due to their ubiquity in modern life, their key roles in current and future technological breakthroughs, and the urgent need to manage plastic waste in the environment. The evaluation provided by ISSR includes formative and summative components and focuses on the impact of the research experience on students’ development of research skills, interests in studying polymers further, interests in participating in research in general, and post baccalaureate plans.