The School of Polymer Science and Engineering (SPSE) at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) proposes the REU Site: Polymer Innovation for a Sustainable Future.  The grand challenges of science and engineering for the 21st century require the engagement and the talent of the diverse student population.  This group, passionate about making a difference, must be attracted to the science and engineering fields and master the skills to work in interdisciplinary teams.  Sustainable materials research addresses the challenge of meeting global societal needs while sustaining natural resources and reducing impact on the environment, important concerns for the next generation. The proposed REU is designed to attract students from diverse backgrounds and provide the foundation for development of interdisciplinary research skills through a comprehensive research and professional development program to train undergraduate students who will eventually pursue advanced degrees in STEM disciplines. Students will participate in fundamental polymer materials research that is aimed at providing innovative solutions to meet societal needs in a sustainable fashion, designing for recyclability and degradability, utilizing renewable feedstocks, and developing materials for sustainable energy and water purification. They will build interdisciplinary communication skills through participative workshops and outreach activities in the community, be exposed to materials manufacturing challenges through interaction with local polymer businesses, and gain appreciation for the environmental impact of materials through lectures, field trips and literature review.