MIT-Germany Seed Fund launched
Offers research-initiation grants to faculty at MIT and in Germany
A focus on solving complex global issues —
including health, the environment, energy
and technological innovation
Fund offers grants to faculty and encourages student engagement
MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) has launched the MIT Germany Seed Fund, made possible through generous support from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. The new fund will offer research-initiation grants to MIT faculty and their counterparts in Germany, and will encourage students to be actively involved in the collaborations. A specific focus will be on topics related to complex global issues — including health, the environment, energy and technological innovation.
Developing deeper international research ties
Seed funds are a vital part of the MIT strategy to internationalize MIT research and education. Associate Provost and Ford International Professor of History Philip S. Khoury delivered remarks in support of the new development:
"We are confident that the innovations the seed fund will produce will give faculty and students opportunities to expand their talents in new directions and consider new perspectives. We also hope the seed fund will consolidate the already strong ties between MIT and Germany, which we are committed to strengthening and expanding through the MIT-Germany Program," he said.
A model for collaboration and building cultural understanding
MIT's partnership with the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research began in 1997, when the MIT-Germany Program was launched with start-up funds from the ministry. The program quickly became a model of international education for engineering, science and business students. By offering internships, workshops and language preparation, the program provides students with an in-depth understanding of German language, culture, politics and business practices.
About MIT Germany
MIT-Germany connects MIT students to professional internships and research
with leading companies, research institutes and universities in Germany.
The program is open to undergrads, graduate students and recent MIT alumni.
A few of the many possibilities:
Develop high-voltage batteries that power hybrid vehicles at BMW
Analyze neuronal responses in mice at a Max Planck Institute
Explore separation processes with Bayer Technology Services
Construct low-cost eye-tracking devices at TU Berlin
MISTI places 500 MIT students a year in professional international positions
The program matches nearly 90 MIT students each year with opportunities in Germany, and pre-selects undergraduate and graduate candidates based on their academic performance, motivation, faculty recommendations and language preparation. Candidates come from all schools at MIT, with a particular emphasis on engineering and science.
MIT-Germany is the largest of 10 the country programs within MISTI. A pioneer in applied international studies, MISTI annually places 500 MIT students in professional internships and research positions within its network of companies, universities, research institutes and NGOs around the world. In addition to student opportunities, MISTI Global Seed Funds provide funding for MIT faculty to jump-start international projects and encourage involvement in faculty-led international research.
Suggested Links
MISTI | MIT Science and Technology Initiatives
http://web.mit.edu/misti/
MIT-Germany program
http://web.mit.edu/misti/mit-germany/
Dr. Georg Schuette from the German Ministry of Education and Research
signs an agreement to establish the MIT Germany Seed Fund.
top row: Dr. Georg Schuette, Erin Schenck,
bottom row: Professor Suzanne Berger, Associate Provost Philip S. Khoury
Writer: Erin Schenck, MIT-Germany Program
Photography: bottom, David Sella
Art Director, Editor: Emily Hiestand