The University of Alabama IRES Site: Fractional-Order Circuits and Systems Research Collaboration with EU COST Action, is a collaborative research experience between the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Alabama and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Communication at Brno University of Technology in the Czech Republic. This program spans up to 12 weeks during the summer semester to immerse 6 students from UA in research focused on designing, simulating, and fabricating analog circuits at the Brno University of Technology (under the mentorship of Dr. Freeborn and faculty in Brno). Students from electrical engineering, computer engineering, musical audio engineering, computer science, and physics are encouraged to apply.
Available research projects will introduce students to the emerging field of fractional-order circuits & systems and advance their understanding and skills in this field. This field is expanding the boundaries of realizable electrical circuits; changing how we view, design, and implement them. This area brings concepts from fractional calculus, the branch of mathematics concerning differentiation and integration to non-integer orders, into the design, analysis, and implementation of electrical circuits and systems.
Beyond research, this program will immerse students in the culture of the Czech Republic. Providing opportunities to learn about the country, cultural sites, local industries, and opportunities for international graduate studies.
Important Dates:
- Final Application Deadline: November 17, 2023
- Notification Deadline: December 15, 2023
- Tentative Program Dates: May 6, 2024 to July 26, 2024
Contact
For more information about this program, contact the following program managers:
Application
We encourage applications from students who are also members of a group underrepresented in STEM fields (women, African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, persons with disabilities, first generation higher education, low income).
Complete the online application by the deadline for full consideration. We reserve the right to make offers to promising applicants before the deadline. Recommendation letters are not required in the initial application. However, they may be requested during the final selection process.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicant must:
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States or its possessions
- Be an undergraduate student in good standing at the University of Alabama
Benefits
During the program, students will:
- Contribute to research projects focused on circuits and systems during collaboration with faculty members, graduate students and other undergraduate students
- Attend professional development seminars about graduate school and international research networks
- Explore the Czech Republic and cultural/regional attractions
- Present research results at end of summer virtual symposium
Financial Support
Participant will receive:
- Stipend ($4800 for the summer) with $500 meal support
- Travel expenses to/from Brno, Czech Republic are fully covered by the program
- Housing on Brno University of Technology campus (at no cost to student)
- Travel insurance provided (at no cost to students)
Requirements
Participant must:
- Completed 2-3 circuits related courses (e.g. ECE 225, ECE 326, ECE 332, ECE 333) prior to travel
- Complete a 2-credit hour prep course with Dr. Freeborn during the Spring 2023 semester
- Commit at least 40 hours per week to research activities during the summer program
- Attend professional development workshops and research seminars during summer
- Attend social events (trips to Prague and other cultural sites in Czech Republic)