The Research in Industrial Projects for Students (RIPS) 2025 program offers a fully funded, immersive research experience for talented undergraduate students. Hosted by the Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics (IPAM) at UCLA, this exciting program runs from June 23 to August 22, 2025, in Los Angeles, USA. If you’re passionate about mathematics, computer science, or data analysis, RIPS provides a unique opportunity to apply your skills in real-world, industrial research projects.
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What is RIPS?
RIPS is a prestigious and competitive internship program where students work in small teams to solve industry-sponsored research challenges. Each team is supported by both an academic and an industry mentor, providing comprehensive guidance throughout the program. Over the course of nine weeks, students develop:
- Problem-solving skills through hands-on projects
- Teamwork and leadership abilities
- Practical experience in an industrial setting
- Professional presentation skills during midterm and final presentations
The program culminates in Projects Day, where participants showcase their research at the sponsor’s facilities.
Why Should You Apply?
Participating in the RIPS Summer Internship is a transformative experience that blends internship and research opportunities. Here’s what you can gain:
- Develop your teamwork and leadership skills through collaboration
- Explore real-world applications of mathematics and data science
- Work with professional mentors and sponsors to tackle industry challenges
- Build a valuable network of academic and industry contacts
- Enjoy a summer in Los Angeles, while gaining hands-on experience
Degree Level
The RIPS Summer Internship Program 2025 is open to undergraduate students enrolled in a university in any country.
Available Subjects
This fully funded internship offers opportunities in a variety of fields, including but not limited to:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Data Analysis
Key Information:
- Location: USA
- Internship Duration: June 23 – August 22, 2025
- Application Deadline: March 2, 2025
- Eligibility: Open to international undergraduate students
- Funding: Fully funded
Benefits of the RIPS Summer Internship Program 2025
Key Features of RIPS 2025
Stipend and Financial Support
- Competitive Stipend: Participants receive a stipend for their involvement in the program.
- Travel Coverage: All travel expenses, including airfare or mileage reimbursement, are fully covered.
- Housing and Meals: Accommodation and meals are provided at UCLA, ensuring a comfortable living arrangement.
Work and Life at UCLA
- Campus Living: Participants reside in on-campus residence halls and work at the IPAM offices, fostering a collaborative environment.
- Technical Support and Activities: IPAM offers technical support, dedicated office space, and social activities, such as daily tea time and guest lectures.
- Proximity to Attractions: Enjoy the beauty of Los Angeles with easy access to Santa Monica beach, Hollywood studio tours, and weekend trips to nearby national parks.
Diverse and Inclusive Opportunities
- Open to All: RIPS welcomes international students, whether studying in the U.S. or abroad.
- Eligibility for Graduating Seniors: Students completing their degrees between December 2024 and June 2025 are encouraged to apply.
- Encouraging Diversity: IPAM actively seeks applications from women and underrepresented groups in mathematics and science fields.
Professional Development
- Team Collaboration: Participants work in teams, with one member acting as project manager, gaining valuable leadership and collaboration experience.
- Skill Development: Students enhance their report writing and public presentation skills, essential for future career success.
- Career Exploration: Many participants leverage their RIPS experience to explore careers in math, technology, and science, with opportunities for publishing their work or presenting at national conferences.
How RIPS Differs from Traditional REU Programs
While RIPS shares commonalities with traditional Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs), it offers a distinctive focus on industrial challenges. Unlike academic REUs, RIPS projects allow students to tackle real-world problems, applying their skills in a practical context. Additionally, RIPS operates independently from the UCLA math department, although it includes lectures from postdoctoral researchers and faculty during the summer.
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to All Nationalities: RIPS invites applications from students worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria
- Student Status: Open to students currently enrolled in or recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree.
- Recent Graduates: Applicants who completed their degree no earlier than December 2024 are eligible for RIPS 2025.
Preferred Background
- A strong foundation in mathematics is highly encouraged.
- An interest in applying mathematics to solve real-world industrial problems is beneficial.
- While projects may involve computational elements, experience in fields such as:
- Computer Science
- Data Analysis
- Numerical Computation
is valuable but not required for every participant.
Competition
- Highly Competitive: Limited slots are available, making the selection process rigorous.
International Student Eligibility
- Open to both international students studying in the U.S. and those studying abroad.
Application Procedure for RIPS Summer Internship Program 2025
If you’re passionate about tackling real-world challenges through mathematics and computer science, the RIPS 2025 program may be the perfect opportunity for you. The application process requires the following components:
Required Documents
- Resume/CV: Submit an updated resume or curriculum vitae.
- Unofficial Transcript: An unofficial transcript is required; official transcripts are not mandatory.
- Reference Letters: Obtain reference letters, which should be submitted through the MathPrograms webpage.
Eligibility Requirements
- A background in mathematics is beneficial, along with some experience in computer programming or data analysis. However, these skills are not mandatory for all projects.
Additional Steps for International Students
- Verification of Eligibility: International students studying in the U.S. must confirm their eligibility with their university’s international office.
- CPT or OPT Application: If selected, students may need to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).
- Visa Application: Foreign students from universities outside the U.S. will need to apply for a U.S. visa. IPAM will assist with this process to ensure a smooth transition.
Ready to Apply?
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enhance your academic journey! Make sure you gather the required documents and complete the application by the deadline.
Apply now and be a part of RIPS 2025, where you can apply your skills to meaningful projects in a collaborative and innovative environment!
