2025 Research in industrial projects for students - Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics

Research in Industrial Projects for Students (RIPS) - Singapore will offer undergraduate students in mathematics and related disciplines the opportunity to work on industry sponsored research problems in Singapore. Students from the U.S., Singapore, and Southeast Asia will work on cross- cultural teams on research problems designed by industrial sponsors. The projects will be of serious interest to the sponsor and will offer a stimulating challenge to students; most will involve both analytic and computational work. At the end of the program, the teams will present the results of their work and prepare a nal report. IPAM will encouragethe U.S. students to publish and/or present their research at conferences in the year following the program. English is the only language required for participation.

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.