>

Tech Crew Program

VINSE Tech Crew offers Vanderbilt undergraduates hands-on experience and technical skills that set them apart in graduate school and industry. Through this immersive program, students work directly on cutting-edge research in nanoscience and nanoengineering while gaining practical training rarely available at the undergraduate level. Opportunities are available both during the summer and throughout the academic year.

Cutting Edge Research Experience for VU Undergraduates

As a Tech Crew member, you will gain hands-on experience operating advanced research tools and learning nanofabrication and characterization techniques used in cutting-edge research. You will support the development of new processes and methods, assist authorized users in the laboratories, and help with day-to-day technical tasks. Tech Crew members also play an important role in maintaining a safe lab environment and knowing when to call for assistance if issues arise.

VINSE offers 4 to 5 paid summer fellowships, along with several hourly positions during the academic year. As you build your technical and professional skills, opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility are available.

VINSE Electroplated Nachos
Granular copper electroplated onto a silicon substrate using the Silicon Valley Wafer Plating: Immersion-Beaker-on-a-Stick System in the VINSE cleanroom. Imaged in the VINSE facilities using the FEI Helios NanoLab FIB-SEM. (Mica Gonzalez-Mora, VINSE Tech Crew)
PECVD grown amorphous silicon on glass
PECVD grown amorphous silicon on glass. Imaged in the VINSE facilities using the Olympus Optical Microscope. (Michal Perez, VINSE Tech Crew)

Being a part of VINSE as a student, researcher, and Tech Crew member has shaped my life during college, and I’m certain it will impact who I become long after. Through VINSE, I didn’t just find a field I love - I found a community where I belong.

Rafael Rafael Rodas Aguliar
Senior Tech Crew
Meet Members of the VINSE Tech Crew
VINSE Tech Crew

Summer Tech Crew

A 10-week summer internship in the VINSE cleanroom, with opportunities to continue working during the academic year.

  • ✓

    Extensive hands-on laboratory experience and skill development for academia and industry

  • ✓

    $7,000 stipend and paid Vanderbilt housing

  • ✓

    Interaction with the VINSE REU program social activities

  • ✓

    Professional development sessions

  • ✓

    Trip to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory

  • ✓

    End of summer poster presentation with several summer programs across campus

  • Am I eligible?
    • Vanderbilt undergraduate students (all majors)
    • Current freshman and sophomores preferred
  • Application Process

    Application Deadline

    February 15, 2026
    All application materials must be received by this date.

    How to Apply

    1. Create an application account.

    2. Under Summer Research Programs, select VINSE Summer Tech Crew.

    3. Submit all required materials by the deadline. Vanderbilt offers multiple REU summer programs, so be sure to select the correct program.

    4. You may apply to up to two summer programs.

    Required Materials and Tips

    • Statement of Interest (one page)
      Introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in becoming a VINSE Tech Crew member, and describe what you hope to gain from the program.

    • Recommendation Letter
      At least one recommendation is required. One recommender must be an academic reference; a second may be personal. Recommenders will receive a link to upload their letters directly.

Apply Now for Summer 2026 Tech Crew - deadline 02.15.26
Tech Crew
Tech Crew
Tech Crew

Academic Year Tech Crew

During the academic year, Tech Crew members help staff the VINSE core laboratories during designated after-hours shifts and selected daytime shifts, supporting staff and assisting with projects in the cleanroom.

Follow VINSE on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates on the openings of the 2026 Academic Year Tech Crew Application.

  • ✓

    Competitive pay & flexible hours

  • ✓

    Help maintain the cleanroom and obtain qualification on equipment to assist cleanroom users

  • ✓

    Develop skills relevant to academia and industry

  • Application Process

    Academic Year Tech Crew: Materials and Application Tips

    • Resume
      Include a current resume highlighting relevant coursework, skills, or experience.

    • Statement of Interest (one page)
      Introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in becoming a VINSE Tech Crew member, and describe what you hope to gain from the program.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about either program, please contact: