Rensselaer

 

Energy Scholars


The CFES Energy Scholars program is established to engage RPI junior and senior students in energy-related research and technology development through collaboration with the industry. The scholars are selected once a year through a competitive application process. Each Scholar will receive $3,500 scholarship, with additional $500 available to cover research related material and travel expenses. A Scholar will be partnered with a sponsoring company and work on an energy-related research project over the academic year (fall and spring semester.) In addition to the scholarship, the student will also receive professional mentoring from both the sponsoring company and a faculty advisor, and have the opportunity to continue the relationship with the company in the form of internship, co-op, or post-graduation job.

  • Students interested in participating in the Energy Scholars program - click here
  • Companies interested in sponsoring an Energy Scholars student - click here

Qualifications, Expectations, and Application


Junior and senior students , regardless their major or concentration, in good academic standing and having interests in energy-related technologies and business can apply for the program. The number of Scholars selected each year will depend on the number of sponsors and available funds. The stipend is for the academic semesters; the Scholar can pursue other activities in the summer, including taking an internship with the sponsor (under a separate arrangement with the sponsor.) The scholarship will be granted for one year at a time, but can be renewed; an application for renewal follows the same procedure as new application and will be reviewed by the same criteria.

Describe your proposed research on a particular subject in one of the following areas. The proposal should include a title, background information, objectives, approaches and methodology. Discussion with a faculty advisor is encouraged and inquiries to CFES about industry interests in different areas are welcome. General areas of interests include:

  • Development, characterization and application of materials for energy harvesting, conversion, storage, and utilization
  • Design, testing and application of PV, wind turbine, batteries, fuel cells, lighting, and other energy devices
  • Renewable energy grid integration, power electronics, power systems, electric transportation, smart grids, smart buildings

A Scholar is expected to:

  • Propose and conduct research on the general areas of interest above,
  • Interact regularly with the sponsor through the mentor,
  • Visit the sponsor at least once each semester, and
  • Present the research work to the sponsor at the conclusion of the program.

To be considered, a student must submit an application consisting of the following items:

  • A complete application form (click here to download) that includes a description of personal and professional interests in energy as well as a research plan
  • Resume
  • Academic transcripts (unofficial copy is acceptable), and
  • A summary of previous Energy Scholar activities and accomplishments (if applicable, no more than one page).
  • The application form can be downloaded by clicking here. The application

The research plan has to specify the relevant scope of interests defined above. Applications can be submitted either electronically or in print, and have to be received by the CFES contact person listed in the application form before the deadline.
Applicants who need recommendations for a faculty advisor in certain subject area can contact CFES for assistance. However, it is ultimately the responsibility of the applicant to secure the support and endorsement of a faculty advisor. Applications will be reviewed by a faculty panel appointed by CFES Director based on the following criteria:

  • Interest in energy as demonstrated in the application as well as previous activities
  • Quality of the research plan and relevance to potential sponsor’s interests
  • Overall academic standing
  • Performance in previous Energy Scholar support (if applicable)

Timeline for 2013-2014 Academic Year

  • March 27 – May 31, 2013: Student Applications accepted
  • May 31, 2013: Student Application deadline
  • July 1, 2013: Selected Scholars announced


2013-2014 Industry Sponsors

  • GE Power & Water
  • National Grid
  • New York Power Authority
  • Chart Industries
  • GE Global Research
  • Corning

Contact Information


For questions about industry sponsors and sponsorship, contact
Martin A. Byrne
Associate Director, Center for Future Energy Systems
byrnem2@rpi.edu; (518) 276-6953