Nanotechnology research opportunities in Japan

Rice University is now accepting applications for the 2012 NanoJapan:

International Research Experience for Undergraduates program.

Generously supported by an NSF Partnerships for International Research & Education (NSF-PIRE) grant, the program seeks to cultivate interest in nanotechnology among young U.S. undergraduate students, especially those from underrepresented groups, and encourages such students to pursue graduate study and academic research in the physical sciences.Recognized as a model for international education programs for science and engineering students, NanoJapan will provide U.S.
undergraduates with structured research opportunities in Japanese university laboratories with Japanese mentors focused on the study of THz dynamics of nanostructures.

The program includes:

1. Pre-Departure Orientation at Rice University

2. Three week Orientation Program in Tokyo that includes Introductory Japanese Language Classes, Introduction to Japanese Society & Culture Seminar, and an Introduction to Nanoscale Science and THz Dynamics Seminar

3. Nanotechnology Research Internship: Eight and a half week research internship with leading nanotechnology laboratories in Japan.
Potential research host universities include Keio University, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Chiba University, Kyoto University, Osaka University, Osaka Institute of Technology, Shinshu University, Tohoku University and Hokkaido University.

4. Re-Entry Program: Includes the communication skills and career developments seminars and the presentation of a research poster at the Rice Quantum Institute's Summer Research Colloquium.

To be eligible to apply for the NanoJapan International Research Experience for Undergraduates (IREU) program you must be:
- Currently enrolled as a degree-seeking undergraduate student at a US institution of higher education;
- A U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
- Currently in your freshman or sophomore year;
- In good academic standing and not currently under any academic suspension or other disciplinary action at your home university;
- Able to express a demonstrated interest in the field of nanotechnology as it relates to THz dynamics of nanostructures

All eligible students with a strong interest in the field of physics-related nanotechnology research and desire to study in Japan are encouraged to apply. Women, underrepresented groups, and students from schools with limited research opportunities are particularly encouraged to apply. Community college students who plan to matriculate to a four-year university and major in physics or engineering are also strongly encouraged to apply. No prior Japanese language experience is required, though applicants should be able to express a demonstrated interest in the study of Japanese language and/or culture.

Benefits: Selected participants will receive international airfare to Japan (departing from Houston), a $4,500 stipend to be used towards living costs while abroad, and program, some meals, and lodging costs related to the Pre-Departure Orientation, Orientation Program in Tokyo, Mid-Program Meeting in Kyoto, and Re-Entry Program at Rice. In lieu of a program fee, students will be responsible for enrollment in a one-credit research course through the Rice Summer School and payment of all applicable tuition and fees.

Online applications must be submitted by January 27, 2012 and two letters of recommendation must be received by February 1, 2012. For more information on the NanoJapan program and to access the online application please see http://nanojapan.rice.edu. For questions please email nanojapan@rice.edu or call (713) 348-6362.

A copy of our program flier is also available for download at http://nanojapan.rice.edu/nr_newsletter.shtml.