Cyber NYC REU Program
The Cyber NYC Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) is a well-supported, fully funded summer program focused on advancing cybersecurity through faculty-mentored research at Columbia University (including Barnard College), New York University, Cornell Tech, and the City University of New York (CUNY).
This unique cross-institutional initiative provides students from the participating institutions with the opportunity to spend 10 weeks conducting hands-on research at one of the participating campuses. Each student is matched with a faculty mentor working on cutting-edge topics in cybersecurity, privacy, cryptography, or related fields. In addition to research, the program includes professional development workshops, technical seminars, industry site visits, and social events designed to build a vibrant, supportive community across campuses.
Cyber NYC REU emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving, offering students a glimpse into the world of graduate research and future careers in cybersecurity and technology.
Eligibility
- Undergraduate students at any of the host institutions who will be rising juniors or seniors by the Summer of program start.
- Must not already have a Bachelor's degree or be slated to graduate by May or the Summer of program start.
Program Overview
- Students will be paired with a faculty member or researcher at one of the host institutions to conduct research. The focus will be on cross-institutional matching, though students may be matched with faculty at their own institutions in some cases. Accepted students will be informed about their mentor and project match.
- In addition to research activities, there will be a program of professional development and social activities with other students at their host institution as well as cohort-wide activities.
- $6000 research stipend in addition to a possible housing allowance to partially offset housing costs. (Note: not all projects will be able to provide a housing allowance.)
Student Spotlights
“Participating in Cyber NYC REU has given me a deeper appreciation for how collaborative research really is!”
— Cyber NYC REU Participant, 2025
“One of the most valuable aspects of Cyber NYC REU for me was the chance to work closely with PhD students and professors. Having their help and guidance throughout the project gave me valuable insight into the path of pursuing a PhD, making that path more accessible and aligned with my future goals. Before, I never really considered doing a PhD, but now, I feel more open about that direction.”
— Cyber NYC REU Participant, 2025
“This experience has transformed my perception of research: Implementing experiments is only half the challenge; finding the right questions—what is important to end users—is equally important.”
— Cyber NYC REU Participant, 2025
“Initially, I never desired a career in research, especially in the cybersecurity specialty. However, through this program, I believe I became more open to the idea of research and would potentially consider cybersecurity-related research. ”
— Cyber NYC REU Participant, 2025
Apply to Cyber NYC REU
Student applications for Summer 2026 are now open!
| 1 | Applications Open October 13th |
| 2 | Deadline on March 25 for full consideration* |
| 3 | Notifications Arrive Mid-April |
*(Applications after that time will be considered on a rolling basis.)
© 2025 Cyber NYC REU — Columbia, NYU, Cornell Tech, CUNY
For any questions, email [email protected]
