IPAM will offer RIPS-Beijing again in summer 2010. In collaboration with Microsoft Research Asia (MSRA), eight U.S. students and eight Chinese students will work on cross-cultural teams on four projects, each sponsored by an MSRA research group. The basic format of the program is the same as RIPS-LA.
RIPS students from the United States and China form close professional and personal relationships and live, work and socialize together over the summer. The students will have offices at MSRA. MSRA provides technical support as well as some social activities, informal Chinese lessons, and occasional guest lectures. Students stay in a hotel within walking distance of MSRA campus in northwest Beijing, will eat most meals in the Microsoft cafeteria, and can use the company gym.
Beijing is a remarkable place to spend a summer. Weekends are available for sightseeing; local sites include the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and Summer Palace. Weekend trips beyond Beijing are also possible.
Like RIPS-LA, all expenses are paid, including round-trip travel from your residence or home institution to Beijing, accommodations, and most meals. In addition, students will each receive a stipend of $3,000 for their full participation. Also like RIPS-LA, graduating seniors are eligible.