Visit Us

Field trips allow students to understand the ongoing, cutting-edge research that takes place at The University of Southern Mississippi Polymer Science Research Center. The objective is to build students' curiosity and interest in polymer science and research and leave with a better understanding of how polymers affect their daily lives. Also we encourage teachers to participate with their students so they can incorporate polymer science in their science curriculum.

Discussion

Students participate in a discussion about "What is a Polymer?" and "Careers and Opportunities in Polymer Science." These presentations are tailored to students' interest levels.

Demonstrations

While lecture and hands-on experiments are one part of the culture, students actively participate in experiments involving polymers. Demonstrations include creating slime, evaluation of thermal transitions using liquid nitrogen, superabsorbants, and many others.

Laboratory Tours

Each group receives tours of our state-of-the-art facilities by our graduate students. The students also participate in hands-on experiments in our research laboratories. Experiments involving polymer synthesis, polymer characterization, coatings or other polymer science concepts can be scheduled.

About our Program

The University of Southern Mississippi School of Polymers and High-Performance Materials has been ranked in the Top 10 by U.S. News and World Report since 1996. Each year over 500 students ranging from elementary to college students visit our facilities. A new wing that added 20,000 square feet of research and support facilities opened in 2004, making our facility over 106,000 square feet with state-of-the-art instrumentation secured by many MRSEC faculty. The university has partnerships with industries like Chevron, Shell, DuPont, Eastman Chemical, 3M, BASF, Bayer, General Electric, Proctor & Gamble, and many others. The program is nationally and internationally recognized for its excellence in polymer science research.

To schedule a visit for your class or organization please contact us.