UA VIGRE: Arizona Summer Program 2009

Overview

The 2009 Arizona Summer Program will be an exciting 4-week research experience for undergraduates in Computational Photonics. There will be a number of lectures given by experts covering computational, mathematical, physical and engineering aspects of the subject accompanied by hands-on computational research experience. Our aim is to expose the role of mathematics in the emerging field of nano-optics, and to provide qualified undergraduates with research experience that promotes learning skills necessary for success in graduate school and in industrial R&D environments.

Students will work on their projects related to the ongoing research at the Arizona Center for Mathematical Sciences (Prof. J.V. Moloney,Director, see http://www.acms.arizona.edu), and R&D division of the Raytheon Corporation (Dr. P. Kano, senior engineer) in the area of Computational Photonics. Following is a tentative list of research topics:

  • Optimization and parameter estimation of photonic devices using global optimization genetic algorithm
  • Applications of Post formula for numerical inversion of the Laplace transform
  • Numerical studies of chaos in laser systems
  • Computation of eigenvalues and eigenvectors (modes and resonant frequencies) for metalic nanostructures

We expect to have 3-4 students per research topic working closely together. The projects will be assigned on the basis of interests, skills and background in computation, mathematics, physics, and engineering. Each group will be mentored by a faculty member and a graduate student. There will be weekly written and oral progress report presentations to the whole group of participants and mentors. The final report of the results will be presented at the end of the program. Once selected, the participants will receive a mailing containing detailed project descriptions, reading material for theoretical and computational background, and software tutorials. We strongly encourage students to establish continuing communication with their mentors during this period.

The educational part of the program will include general overview of computational optics, discussions of graduate programs, opportunities in industry and national labs, and visits to University of Arizona Optical Sciences Center laboratories.

The cultural program will include field trips to:

  • The Arizona Sonora Desert Museum
  • Kitt Peak Observatory
  • Mount Graham
  • Karchner Caverns
  • Chiricuahua Mountains

Basic information

  • Dates: June 28 - July 25, 2009
  • Location: The University of Arizona, Tucson Arizona
  • Housing: Students will be housed at no cost and will be given an allowance for food.
  • Stipend: Students will receive a stipend of $1200 in addition to an allowance for travel expenses.
  • Eligibility: The program is open to undergraduates who will graduate in Spring 2009 or later. To be eligible, students must be US citizens or permanent residents. Applications from students in mathematics, applied mathematics, computer science, physics, engineering, and related areas are welcome.

Applications

To apply, send these documents:

  • An application form
  • A brief statement (1-2 pages) about your interest in the program, what you hope to contribute, and what you hope to get out if it.
  • Undergraduate transcripts of all college course work (unofficial copies are ok).
  • A separate list of mathematics, computer science, physics and engineering courses. For each course, list the instructor, the textbook, the topics covered, and your grade.
  • Two recommendation letters (Persons writting your recommendation letters may find these hints useful).
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency.

to this address:

Arizona Summer Program 2009
Department of Mathematics
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ  85721

New extended deadline April 15, 2009.

Expected background

Students should have a course in linear algebra and in differential equations. Since the projects will involve substantial use of computers, some programming experience with mathematical software such as Matlab, Maple, or Mathematica will be very helpful. The ability to work independently is crucial. No prior knowledge of partial differential equations, numerical methods, or optics is required.

Questions?

If you have questions, please contact us at brio@math.arizona.edu