The following are some key steps while applying for Research Internships, answering the pattern formed by the what, why, how and where questions.
What is a Research Internship (RI)?
A RI is an opportunity to get your hands dirty by being involved in academic/industrial research projects. Typically a RI can last from a minimum of 3 months to one year long periods. It is a chance for students to investigate critical research problems arising in academia and the industry (Mechanical Eng., Computer Science, etc.) A RI in Computer Science offers a variety of things, which depends on the level of experience and expertise in a particular area. Literature survey, research paper reviews, programming, analysis and design of software architecture & algorithms, writing a research paper are the few things a candidate would end up doing during a RI. A research intern would typically work in a team or individually depending on the research assignment. In case of industrial research the intern may collaborate with other researchers, as opposed to academic research in which he may just work with the advisor.
Why do a RI?
A RI gives you a chance to get involved in research activities early in the academic career. It introduces you to the world of research and broadens the horizon in terms of understanding research methodologies, being updated with the latest techniques and trends in science and by exposing students to a new world other than a stereotypical bookish world. Doing research during undergrad or immediately after finishing the UG program lays a solid foundation for getting a Master's/PhD degree. Prior research experience is always beneficial before starting a Master's or a PhD programme since it helps the student in exploring a particular area and identifying his/her research interests along the way. It's a wonderful opportunity to work with industrial research labs, and work closely with advisors (professors) in Universities. Working with eminent professors helps in defining a certain way of thinking and attacking problems. Research work creates a whole new perspective and allows in-depth study in a particular area. Getting SOLID recommendations highlighting research experience from researchers is a boon while applying for advanced degrees.
How to apply for one?
Such applications are usually done via e-mail. Applying for RI's can get tricky at times. Tricky in the sense, it is very important to be precise while applying. While applying keep the body of the email short and simple, highlighting your research interests, any prior work / assignments done in that particular area, your long term plans (next 2-3 years), a list of technical reports. An effective strategy while applying for internships is to ensure bulk e-mailing to Professors in different Universities at the same time applying very carefully (A particular email which is meant to be addressed to Prof.ABC may be sent to Prof.XYZ, haha). Getting admitted for internships can be a long shot in the dark, but if you get it right, it is one of the best thing that can happen to your career. Especially foreign internships are fascinating in a way that it allows you to study (work) abroad and meet with people from different cultures and collaborate with smart academicians. It is very important to follow up with Professors at the time of application. If they do not reply to your email (that happens most of the times, do not get disheartened though), feel free to call them on their office telephone after a week and enquire about your application. Shortlisting professors is one of the most important thing while applying. You have to take a look at their web pages which can be found on the University listings. Study their webpages really well since many professors have their own "rules" defined for prospective students. Keep in mind that your research interests match with the professors interests and apply accordingly. Also make use of your current undergrad professor's contacts to find a suitable place for doing an internship.
Where to apply ?
Since I am a Computer Science professional, I would list a few places which look at hiring Computer Science students. Some places to look at in Europe and India include:
- IITs (Bombay, Delhi, Madras, KGP, etc.)
- IISc Bangalore
- EPFL Switzerland
- ETH Zurich
- TU Dresden
- Karlsruhe University
- RWTH Aachen
- TU Darmstadt
- DERI Ireland
- INRIA France
- TU Madrid
- TU Delft / Eindhoven
I hope this information has been useful in some way for your application. Feel free to ask any questions. Thank you.
