UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Two summer research programs focused on engaging undergraduate students in climate science research and finding solutions to global warming will be concluding in a combined event that is free and open to the public.

Penn State’s Climate Science Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program and the Drawdown Scholars program are hosting their final poster symposium from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3, in the Steidle Building Atrium on the University Park campus.

Students in these programs conduct research over the summer under the mentorship of faculty, postdoctoral scholars and graduate students.

The Climate Science REU program is directed by professors in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences: Ray Najjar, professor of oceanography, and Greg Jenkins, professor of meteorology and atmospheric science and director of Alliance for Education, Science, Engineering and Design with Africa (AESEDA). The program covers the full range of climate science, including greenhouse gas emissions; changes in the atmosphere, ocean and biosphere; and impacts on ecosystems and society.

Penn State’s Drawdown Scholars program is directed by Rachel Brennan, professor of environmental engineering, and Cindy Reed, assistant director of student research and graduate equity, both in the College of Engineering. The program partners with Project Drawdown to explore and enhance “the most comprehensive plan ever proposed to reverse global warming.” The Drawdown mission seeks to clarify a positive solutions-oriented path ahead for action on climate change.

The Climate Science REU program is funded by the National Science Foundation. Funding for the Drawdown Scholars program is provided by Penn State’s Institutes of Energy and the Environment, College of Engineering, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, Eberly College of Science and the Social Science Research Institute.

The 2023 symposium will feature poster presentations from the two programs. Refreshments will be provided.