Frontier Technologies in Biometrics and Authentication

As biometrics (e.g., face and fingerprint) security measures become the preferred approach for authentication in daily-life scenarios, scientists and engineers with biometric computing skills are increasingly in high demand.

In this 10-week REU program, undergraduate students will work with a group of experienced faculty members and industrial mentors, and conduct cutting-edge research in biometrics and authentication. Participants will complete a short-term intensive research training experience, which will prepare them for a research path in the field of cybersecurity, as well as benefit their graduate applications and job opportunities.

Particularly, this REU site also allows students to dive into and learn sought-after skills in data processing, app/software development or machine learning. Through various activities such as hands-on projects, seminars, demos, presentations, field trips, and other professional development opportunities, undergraduate students will also enhance their professional skills.

• A minimum of a $5,000 stipend
• Hands-on research/training in biometrics and authentication technologies
• Seminars, presentations and other professional development activities
• Networking opportunities with UB faculty and student participants from throughout the U.S.
• Opportunities to publish/present research work in academic venues (e.g., journals or conference)

This REU site aims to broaden the participation of underrepresented students from institutions that offer limited or no research opportunities in biometrics and authentication.

• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Basic programming skills (e.g., Matlab, C/C++/C#, Python or Java)
• Preferred GPA: 3.0+
• Major field of study in all engineering and science related disciplines. Exceptions can be made for good candidates.

This REU site is supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates Site Program under Grant # CNS-2050910.