# Chemistry for the Warfighter: Midshipman Research at the U.S. Naval Academy

## TL;DR

This paper discusses how chemistry research is integrated into the U.S. Naval Academy's curriculum to prepare future military officers.

## Contribution

The paper highlights the unique integration of chemistry education and research within a military-focused undergraduate program.

## Key findings

- Chemistry is integrated into the military program to develop scientific and leadership skills.
- Midshipmen contribute to publishable research with military relevance through independent courses.
- Collaborations with external partners enhance the quality and impact of midshipmen-led research.

## Abstract

The United States Naval Academy (USNA) is an exclusively
undergraduate
institution that awards every graduate with a Bachelor of Science
degree and prepares them for military service in the Navy or Marine
Corps. This viewpoint highlights (1) how chemistry is integrated into
our rigorous military program of study, (2) how our independent research
courses help to prepare future Naval and Marine Corps officers, (3)
how midshipmen contribute to publishable military-relevant research,
and (4) how external collaborative efforts increase the caliber and
impact of research.