The official application for this program is made through the NanoJapan website, and the application deadline is January 23, 2015. This posting is for informational purposes only. You do not require approval from IIT to apply directly to the program.

Rice University is now accepting applications for the 2015 NanoJapan: International Research Experience for Undergraduates program. Generously supported by an NSF Partnerships for International Research & Education (NSF-PIRE) grant, this summer program seeks to cultivate interest in nanoscience among young U.S. undergraduate students, especially those from underrepresented groups, and encourages such students to pursue graduate study and academic research in related fields. The program has been nationally recognized by the National Academy of Engineering and the Institute of International Education's Heiskell Award as a model for the expansion of international opportunities for STEM students.

The NanoJapan: IREU will provide U.S. undergraduates with structured research opportunities in Japanese university laboratories focused on the study of THz dynamics of nanostructures. Research is conducted in English under the mentorship of a Japanese host professor a graduate student mentor. Applications are accepted from eligible freshman and sophomore undergraduates from universities nationwide and the program is well-suited to engineering or physics students with a keen interest in nanoscience research

The 12-week, summer 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. Nanoscience Research Internship: Eight and a half week research internship with leading nanoscience laboratories in Japan. Potential research host universities include the University of Tokyo, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Chiba University, Kyoto University, Osaka University, the Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology Graduate University, Shinshu University, Tohoku University and Hokkaido University.

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

ELIGIBILITY CRITIERIA
To be eligible to apply for the NanoJapan: IREU Program student's must be:

- Currently enrolled as a degree-seeking undergraduate student at a U.S. 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 physics-related nanoscience 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); up to a $4,000 stipend to be used towards living costs while abroad; and program, some meals, and lodging costs during the Pre-Departure Orientation, Orientation Program in Tokyo, Mid-Program Meeting in Okinawa, and Re-Entry Program at Rice. During the research internship, students will use their stipend to pay their housing and living costs.