[robotics-worldwide] extended research visits of US graduate students to European Cognitive Systems and Robotics groups

[Maria Gini]

Following the success of a similar program in Summer 2011, graduate
students studying in the US are invited to apply for a NSF funded 
extended (6-8 weeks) research visit to a European research group in
Cognitive Systems and Robotics.  

The purpose of the visits is to get exposed to new research paradigms 
and approaches, work closely with an established researcher in a new 
research group, increase cultural awareness by working in a different 
country, and build a research bridge for long term collaborations.

== Deadline for applications: March 1, 2012 
== Notification of acceptance: mid March 2012

Eligibility: full-time graduate students studying in the US.
No need for prior arrangements between student and host, but a 
desirable host can be indicated in the application.

Requirements:
1. spend 6-8 weeks doing research with the assigned host.  
   Timeframe: Summer 2012, around the time of AAMAS to leverage the 
   international part of the travel
2. attend the Doctoral Consortium at AAMAS (Valencia, Spain, June 4-8)

Funding will include:
* travel to Europe (on a US carrier)
* attendance to AAMAS Doctoral Consortium and related travel to/from 
  host institution
* a stipend of $2.500/month for up to 2 months

Selection criteria: 
* preference to full-time students who are US citizens or permanent 
  residents
* consideration given to progress in degree, evidence of research 
  excellence, benefits expected from participation

Expected number of awards: 9

To apply submit (by email to gini at cs.umn.edu) by March 1:
1. a two-page extended abstract on thesis research 
2. a curriculum vitae (max 2 pages) 
3. a personal statement (1-2 pages max) with answers to a few questions
   listed at http://www.cs.umn.edu/~gini/europe2012/
4. an estimate of travel cost
5. a letter from the advisor (to be submitted directly by the advisor) 
   addressing progress toward degree, research topic and its significance, 
   expected graduation date, expected benefit from attending, and ability 
   to work with others

For additional information visit http://www.cs.umn.edu/~gini/europe2012/
and/or contact:
 
Maria Gini 
Department of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Minnesota
email: gini at cs.umn.edu