As the academic calendar turns its pages towards summer, the Cross-Border Threat Screening and Supply Chain Defense (CBTS) Center of Excellence (COE) is bustling with anticipation for its second annual Summer Research Institute (SRI). Building on the success of its inaugural event, CBTS is primed to deliver another enriching and collaborative experience.
Last year CBTS partnered with faculty at Texas A&M University System RELLIS Academic Alliance, Texas A&M University – Commerce, Texas A&M University, and Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco to host a combined 14 students for a 10-week undergraduate research experience. Research was focused on cybersecurity and biothreat defense topics. In addition to their research projects, biothreat students had the opportunity to tour the Pharr Bridge point of entry. The cybersecurity students visited the Port of Houston to learn about maritime applications. Additionally, students met DHS leaders, learning about career opportunities as well as attending multiple professional development lectures. Students concluded their 10-week program with the submission of a mini-thesis and a professional presentation of their research that was attended by subject matter experts from DHS.
Looking ahead
Echoing the sentiments of last year’s participants, Katlin Shoemaker, CBTS Education Director, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming program. “Our inaugural Summer Research Institute exceeded our expectations in terms of both quality and impact,” she remarked. “We are thrilled to build upon that momentum and offer a platform for faculty to provide an intensive mentorship experience. Our intent with the SRI programs is to develop the next generation to enter into careers in the Homeland Security Enterprise.”
This year’s program is scheduled to commence on May 28th and run through August 2nd. RELLIS in Bryan, TX will be hosting the cybersecurity program and Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Weslaco, TX will host the biothreat defense program. We are also thrilled to announce the cybersecurity program will have a partnership with Bryan Texas Utilities (BTU) to explore threats to the electrical grid. Students and faculty in this will receive guidance from industry experts and tour local facilities.
Faculty and student applications have closed for the upcoming program and the CBTS staff are in the process of interviewing and making final selections. CBTS anticipates increasing the number of faculty and student participants this year as interest in the program grows.
Follow CBTS on Facebook, LinkedIn, or X or check out the website for updates on the program and to watch the final student presentations.