Student Research Programs

Will RIPS 2023 take place virtually or in person?

As of now, we expect the RIPS program will take place in person as planned. However, this may change depending on the trajectory of the pandemic. In the context of rapidly changing COVID-19 pandemic, we will adapt our programming to ensure optimum safety of our participants.

Who should consider applying to RIPS?

RIPS is a program for students who are enrolled in or have just completed an undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree. Recent graduates who have received their degree no earlier than December 2022 may apply for RIPS 2023. Students with a strong background in mathematics and an interest in seeing how mathematics is used in the real world are encouraged to apply. Most of the projects have a significant computational component, so that proficiency (or at least some experience) in computer science, data analysis or numerical computation is valuable, but not necessary for everyone. Competition is high for the limited slots available. International students are eligible to apply for RIPS-LA.

What will participating in RIPS do for me?

First, in contrast to most summer research experiences that focus on an academic problem where students work closely with an academic mentor, RIPS students apply their mathematics knowledge to a real-world industrial problem, with an emphasis on problem solving using whatever methods are appropriate. In this way, RIPS is a cross between an REU and an internship. Second, RIPS students work on teams, with one student serving as project manager. For many students, this is their first experience working in a team environment.  Third, RIPS provides students an opportunity to explore careers in mathematics, science and technology. They learn about the company that is sponsoring their project through interaction with their industrial mentor, and about the other industry sponsors through discussions with other RIPS students about their projects. Fourth, RIPS students learn report writing and public presentation skills that will be invaluable to them as they continue with an academic or professional career in an industrial setting. These skills, combined with real-world research experience, give students an edge in the job market.

What is it is like to participate in RIPS?

RIPS students live, work and socialize together over the summer, so they form close professional and personal relationships. Students have an office with a computer and meeting space at IPAM. IPAM provides technical support as well as daily “tea time” and occasional guest lectures. Students stay in university housing within walking distance of IPAM and eat most meals on campus. UCLA is located approximately four miles from the Santa Monica beaches and is within close proximity to many popular tourist destinations. Students work hard, but they can also take surfing lessons, tour Hollywood studios, take weekend trips to national parks, and find other ways to enjoy their summer in LA.

What does the program emphasize?

The program emphasizes research, of course, but this is just part of it. You will experience group work, perhaps for the first time, and learn to navigate the team environment. In addition, there is a significant emphasis on the presentation of your research. You will write a formal final report for your “client” (the industry sponsor) as well as prepare and give midterm and final presentations of your work to an audience that includes students, faculty, industry professionals, and others. The last two weeks of the program are devoted to the final report and presentation, culminating in “Projects Day” and your site visit to your sponsor’s office, lab or facility.

What is a Project Manager?

One student on each team will serve as project manager, whose role includes leading team discussions, coordinating individual team member efforts, monitoring the team’s progress in meeting milestones, and communicating with the industry sponsor and RIPS director. It is a worthwhile opportunity as well as a challenging responsibility. The RIPS director provides the project managers with regular coaching and support. The RIPS director and your academic mentor will choose the project manager during the first week of RIPS.

What support do participants receive?

Travel (airfare or mileage reimbursement) to IPAM is covered, subject to certain rules and limits. Housing in the dorms and most meals are included. IPAM also provides limited partial support for future travel to select conferences, support for site-visit with sponsors, and visa sponsorship for selected international students. In addition, participants receive a stipend of US$4,000.

Is RIPS an REU?

Not exactly. It is a research experience, but the projects come from industry rather than academia, so it is essentially a cross between an REU and an internship. Furthermore, IPAM is independent of the UCLA math department, so RIPS students do not have regular interaction with the math department. That said, IPAM arranges occasional lectures given by UCLA postdocs and faculty of math and related disciplines, and many of the academic mentors are UCLA math postdocs. There are no classes during RIPS; the focus is entirely on the research projects, and ultimately presenting the results.

What classes should a student have already completed to be adequately prepared for RIPS?

The backgrounds of successful applicants vary quite a bit. Most have taken some upper-division math and some computer programming classes. We will consider the courses you have completed to decide which project is right for you; since students work in teams, if you haven’t covered a subject that is relevant to your project, chances are one of the other students has.

I will graduate with my Bachelors Degree this spring; am I eligible to participate in the RIPS program this summer?

Yes, we will accept applicants who will complete their bachelor’s degree between December and June of the current academic year.

I am a foreign student studying in the United States; am I eligible to participate?

Yes, international students are eligible to apply for RIPS-LA. If selected, you will most likely need to obtain a “CPT” (Curricular Practical Training) from your home university (the institution that is sponsoring your F1 visa) in order to participate in the program. This will likely require you to register for an internship or independent study class through your school. On occasion, it is also possible to participate through an “OPT” (Optional Practical Training), but it is up to you to determine whether this option is compliant with U.S. government guidelines. Please clarify your eligibility for RIPS with your school’s international student office before applying to this program.

I am not a US citizen and I attend a foreign university; am I eligible to participate?

Yes, your application will be considered for RIPS-LA. If selected, you will need to apply for a U.S. visa, with assistance from IPAM.

*Please note that this policy may be impacted by the ongoing pandemic and public safety regulations.

How should I tell my references to submit their letters?

Reference letters need to be uploaded on the MathPrograms webpage. You will be asked to enter your letter writers’ names and email addresses. The system will send them automatic email requests on your behalf, or you can customize the letter sent to them from the application page. You can also track when a letter is uploaded by one of your references.

Is it necessary to submit transcripts with my application?

A transcript or academic record (listing your classes and grades) from your undergraduate institution is required, but it can be unofficial. The file submission happens on the application webpage. The application form will ask you to upload your resume/CV and transcript(s). You may submit your application and return to it later to upload one or both documents.

Please note some schools issue “protected” PDF files – if you try and upload such a file you will get an error saying it’s a protected file. If this happens you have to print it out, scan it, and then upload it again.

What if I have a disability or mental health diagnosis?

Students with disabilities who are invited to participate in RIPS will submit documentation to the UCLA Center for Accessible Education.  A counselor will assess your situation and request, and instruct IPAM as to what accommodations to offer you.  IPAM will send you the instructions to begin this process soon after you accept our invitation to join RIPS.