The NanoJapan Program is a 12-week, summer research internship focusing on Terahertz (THz) Dynamics in Nanostructures that is open to freshman and sophomore engineering and physics students from universities nationwide. Generously supported by an NSF Partnerships for International Research & Education (NSF-PIRE) grant, this summer 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. To be eligible students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents an each year up to 12 students will be selected to participate.
Our program design, combining the best aspects of a traditional study abroad experience with intensive nanotechnology research internships, has been nationally recognized as an innovative and effective model for international STEM programs. In 2012, NanoJapan was profiled in a National Academy of Engineering Report on "Infusing Real World Experience into Engineering Education" (see pg. 33) and in 2008 NanoJapan received the IIE Heiskell Award as a 'Best Practice in Study Abroad' for expanding opportunities for STEM students.
The program includes:
This preparatory seminar will include web lectures on TeraNano research, Japan, online modules, and self-directed reading and exercises. The seminar will be supplemented by guest lectures given by TeraNano PIRE Researchers from the U.S. and Japan during the language and culture orientation program in Tokyo.
This workshop will provide an overview of the summer program, including expectations for working in Japanese research labs and dealing with cultural differences. The pre-departure program will be held at Rice University the day immediately prior to departure for Japan.
Held in Kyoto, this meeting provides an opportunity for the NanoJapan program to address any research or cultural issues that may have arisen during the first half of the IRE. The group setting allows NanoJapan students to reflect on their experiences in the lab and share tips with their fellow students on best practices for working in a Japanese research lab. Students will also participate in a traditional Japanese culture and arts program. Immediately prior to or following the Mid-Program Meeting Prof. Kono or Prof. Bird will conduct site visits to each research host lab to meet with the Japanese research host and NanoJapan students to monitor research progress and student integration into the research lab.
The capstone experience of NanoJapan will be a poster presentation at the Rice Quantum Institute (RQI) Summer Colloquium, which highlights the best of undergraduate and graduate research in areas relating to quantum phenomena. This symposium will include a re-entry program for NanoJapan students that will address professional development including communication and presentation skills workshops, resume and interview workshops, a seminar on integrating their international experience into future academic and career plans, and a seminar highlighting further opportunities for international study and research for STEM students
All students receive international airfare and a stipend of up to $4,500 funded by the NSF to be used towards their living expenses abroad. Group international airfare is arranged by Rice University and housing, typically in university dorms, is arranged by research host labs in collaboration with the NanoJapan Program. Students use their stipends to pay for their internship housing.
All NanoJapan students will received International Health Insurance through the CISI policy offered by the University of Tulsa. This insurance will be valid for the duration of your time in Japan and provides medical illness or accident coverage along with medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. Participants are also required to rent a Japanese cell phone through Piccell Wireles to use for the duration of their stay abroad. Students use their stipend to pay for their cell phone rental fees and usag.
See NanoJapan Program Cost and Schedule for more information.
In lieu of a program fee all NanoJapan participants will be required to register for at least 1 research/internship credit through the Rice University Summer School for College Students. The cost of tuition and any related application fee (for non-Rice students) must be paid for individually. In 2013, the cost of 1 credit is estimated at $985. More information on summer course enrollment will be provided to selected recipients.
NanoJapan participants must enroll for at least 1 research/internship credit but have the option of enrolling for up to 2 research/internship credits and must meet the following academic requirements:
Upon successful completion of the program students will receive a letter grade and be eligible to request a Rice University transcript. Non-Rice University students should speak with their academic advisor, study abroad office, or registrar's office to determine if credit received will be eligible for transfer to their home university prior to departure for Japan.
