Project Openings

Below are currently advertised UROP projects available to MIT, CME and cross-registered Wellesley College undergraduates. All projects, regardless of mode (pay, credit, or volunteer) are expected to be worth MIT academic credit and be supervised by MIT faculty. Projects appear on this list in the order they have been received.

NOTE: These projects do not represent all available UROPs as many faculty do not submit project listings for this site. Rather, they expect interested students to contact them based on their general research to discuss potential UROPs.

Available UROPs

7/7/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Literature
Faculty Supervisor: Sandy Alexandre

Project Title: The Relationship Between Age and Race

Project Description: Does age determine ones qualification for a particular racial identity? In other words, if we consider race as something that is practiced, then how does its efficacy and its mode of operation change over time that is, the older you get? How do generational conflict and the passing of time in a character s individual lifespan help us to transform altogether our understanding of race? This UROP will help you to begin answering these questions regarding the possible ways in which temporality inflects our understanding of race. You will learn to hone your library and computer research skills. You will learn how English/Literature professors both conduct and write about research in their field. You will learn why such research matters, even if the problems that Literature professors are interested in are not tangible ones. You will learn what a conceptual problem is and the importance of attempting to solve one. I will ultimately use the research you collect and synthesize in order to write and subsequently publish an article of literary and cultural criticism of approximately 30 pages in length for a scholarly journal.

Prerequisites: Some background in library research; commitment to and some interest in the project.

Contact: Interested students should e-mail a paragraph of interest to Sandy Alexandre (alexandy@mit.edu). Please title your subject heading as follows: UROP Race & Age.

7/7/09
Summer/Fall 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST/LMRT (Bhatia Lab)
Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia

Project Title: Stem cells and high-throughput strategies for regenerative medicine

Project Description: The project aims to advance cell-based therapies against liver diseases. We use microscale technologies and high-throughput strategies to manipulate a variety of cell types, ranging from embryonic stem cells to mature hepatocytes. The student will be exposed to robotics and computational biology over at the Harvard-MIT Broad Institute. He/she will work closely with a graduate student on many aspects of the project but will mainly be responsible for directing automated image analysis and/or maintaining & characterizing cell cultures. Candidates should be interested in a multiscale approach to biology and those with some background in biology will be given preference.

Prerequisites: The candidate should be highly motivated and available to work full time over the summer and ~12hrs/week in the fall semester.

Contact: js8686@mit.edu

6/30/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Medicine/Laboratory ofor Microscale & Nanoscale Engineering and Regenerative Medicine/Partners Healthcare
Faculty Supervisor: Dr Shiladitya Sengupta

Project Title: Embryonic Stem Cell differentiation into vasculature for regenerative medicine

Project Description: Embryonic stem cells have the capacity to differentiate into the mroe than 200 cell types that make up our body. Hence, selective differentiation into selective cells offers an unparalleled advantage to treat various degenerative diseases, such as heart diseases (eg. ischemia). During heart attacks, for instance, there is decreased blood flow to the heart due to blood vessel insufficiency. We are hence developing novel methods to direct stem cell differentation into vasculature, which would have the promise to treat millions of Americans per year.

Prerequisites: Basic molecular biology experience required (eg. familiarity with micropipettes...). Hence, previous lab experience is preferred.

Contact: Dr Rania Harfouche rharfo@mit.edu

6/30/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Medicine/Laboratory ofor Microscale & Nanoscale Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Faculty Supervisor: Dr Shiladitya Sengupta

Project Title: Cancer-based nanotherapeutics

Project Description: Nano-based technology for cancer targetting: Deregulation of signaling pathways is a hallmark of many cancers. Hence, targetting selective pathways is a promising method to eradicate cancer spread. However, small molecula inhibitors lack specificity and yield systemic toxicity. Hence, our laboratory is using novel nano-based approaches to target tumors without associated toxicities in vitro, using various cell lines, and in vivo using a novel Zebrafish assay as well as standard mice assay.

Prerequisites: Basic molecular biology experience required (eg. familiarity with micropipettes...). Hence, previous lab experience is preferred.

Contact: Dr Rania Harfouche rharfo@mit.edu

6/30/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Francis Bitter Magnet Lab, Dept. of Chemistry
Faculty Supervisor: Robert G. Griffin

Project Title: Design of instrumentation for DNP/cryogenic Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Project Description: Our lab has developed Dynamic Nuclear Polarizarion (DNP) as a means to increase the sensitivity of NMR experiments by orders of magnitude. Due to the state of the art nature of our methods development, we also need to design and construct custom instrumentation. We are looking for a UROP to help design a new high-field DNP solid state NMR (SSNMR) probe. A DNP SSNMR probe, capable of coupling frequencies ranging from 70 MHz to 460 GHz to the sample of interest, will be designed based on the 3D CAD and electrical designs of a similar probe. It will be necessary to optimize both the 3D mechanical design and the AC circuit, prepare 2D fabrication drafts, and work with graduate students and technicians to assemble the instrumentation. Once designed, we will use the probe to study biological systems associated with influenza, proton transport and amyloid formation, to obtain valuable structural and functional information. We are looking for a student with interest in mechanical and/or electrical engineering. NMR is a powerful technique that provides important structural and functional information about biological molecules. Its major weakness is inherent insensitivity, which is especially pronounced in the case of biological samples, such as proteins. However, the sensitivity can be drastically improved by transferring the large polarization of electrons to nuclei using Dynamic Nuclear Polarization. Such experiments impose stringent requirements on equipment. For example, a modern DNP SSNMR probe must cool the sample down to ~80 Kelvin, spin the sample mechanically at 10 20 kHz, efficiently deliver RF irradiation at 3-4 frequencies in the range from several tens to several hundreds MHz, and deliver microwave and laser irradiation to the sample. All of the necessary components must fit in a restricted volume and must not disturb the magnetic field. We address these challenges by employing the combination of detailed designs in 3D CAD and electrical circuit simulation software, as well !
as through close collaboration with the Plasma Science and Fusion Center at MIT. Our goal is to apply this instrumentation to studies of important biological molecules at high magnetic field and make our next generation technology widely available.

Prerequisites: Candidates for this position should be proficient in 3D CAD software, preferably with Autodesk Inventor. Familiarity with AC electric circuit design and simulation is also desirable.

Contact: Prof. Robert G. Griffin NW14-3220, MIT rgg@mit.edu

6/30/09
UROP Department: MIT Sea Grant College Program
Center for Coastal Resources
Supervisor: Judith Pederson, Room E34-370, x3-1741

UROP Position available at the MIT Sea Grant College Program’s Center for Coastal Resources working on the Gulf of Maine Regional Ocean Science project.

Job duties include: conducting research and compiling what other research and initiatives exist for the Gulf of Maine region; research and compilation of information on invasive species; and other duties as assigned. Some field work may be required.

Candidate should have excellent computer skills including proficiency with the internet, MS Word and Excel, as well as proficient writing skills. Candidates with experience or interest in ocean sciences and other computer programming experience a plus. WE are seeking a student available for the 6-8 weeks this summer with the option of ~10 hours/week during the fall semester.

6/30/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Speech Group, RLE
Faculty Supervisor: Stefanie Shattuck-Hufnagel

Project Title: Audio-visual graphic interface for research in child language development

Project Description: Children learning to talk must learn the intonational and timing patterns of the adult language, and sometimes their knowledge outstrips their ability to produce these patterns vocally, especially in children with speech development problems. To determine what they know, as opposed to what they can speak, we use a method that depends on the child's ability to manipulate a graphic representation of the pitch and timing of the spoken words. This experimental approach requires an audio-visual graphic interface that can be easily manipulated even by a child with motor difficulties, to be developed during July-August. Position is 30-40 hours per week, $12 per hour.

Prerequisites: Computer scientist with graphical knowledge and extensive experience with design of graphical user interfaces and some knowledge of incorporating audio.

Contact: sshuf@mit.edu, 3-3201

6/30/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Department of Genetics (Harvard Medical School)
Faculty Supervisor: George Church

Project Title: Bioinformatics for High-Throughput Antibody Sequence Analysis

Project Description: The immune system functions largely through the generation of a vast array of unique receptors. Understanding the diversity and repertoire of these receptors has significant implications in understanding many immune-related diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Crohns disease, HIV, allergies, transplants, rheumatoid arthritis) as well as applications in therapeutics (e.g., drug discovery, vaccine development). However, our ability to characterize this repertoire has only recently been attainable due to the recent development of high-throughput DNA sequencing technologies. These technologies require significant sequence analysis in order to effectively interpret the data that is generated. We are looking for undergraduate computer programmers to help develop software and algorithms for analyzing large amounts of antibody sequence data. This will include sequence alignment, statistical analysis, clustering, and data visualization software. Under the supervision of a graduate student, we will write a software pipeline to automate a significant portion of the analysis of these large data-sets.

Prerequisites: Experience programming in python and possibly lower-level languages like C or C++. Interest/experience in biological applications and bioinformatics/sequence analysis is a plus.

Contact: Uri Laserson laserson@mit.edu

6/30/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Kanwisher Lab (McGovern Institute for Brain Research / Brain & Cognitive Sciences Department))
Faculty Supervisor: Nancy Kanwisher

Project Title: The neural basis of language

Project Description: The Kanwisher Lab (http://web.mit.edu/bcs/nklab/) is looking for a for-credit UROP student starting in the fall of 2009 (or earlier) to work on a project investigating the neural basis of language. In particular, this project involves a series of experiments aimed at understanding whether (a) different aspects of language (e.g., understanding meanings of words, or understanding how words relate to one another in a sentence) are supported by distinct cortical regions, and (b) regions involved in language processing are specialized for language (or whether they may be involved in some other cognitive processes). You will work closely with a postdoctoral researcher (Ev Fedorenko; http://web.mit.edu/evelina9/www/) and your duties will include helping to review the relevant literature and to design experiments, creating experimental materials, running participants (on both behavioral and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiments), and helping with data analyses. You will learn how to design experiments, how to use fMRI to address questions in cognitive science and cognitive neuroscience, how to analyze and critically evaluate experimental data, and how to present research results.

Prerequisites: We are interested in someone who is committed to continuing at least in the spring 2010 semester (and ideally beyond). We are looking for someone who has taken some classes in cognitive science / linguistics / neuroscience and who is considering a research career (if you have not taken any relevant classes, but think you would be a good fit, don't hesitate to get in touch). We are looking for someone who is responsible and motivated and who would be able to spend at least 10 hours a week in the lab. Finally, programming skills (especially, matlab and python) would be a big plus.

Contact: Contact Ev Fedorenko at evelina9@mit.edu. In your email, please briefly describe your background and/or attach a resume and let me know when you might be available for an interview.

6/12/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: The Media Labortaory
Faculty Supervisor: Joseph Paradiso

Project Title: 3D Games as Adapatable Sensor Visualizations

Project Description: The project involves creation or modding of a 3D game engine to read sensor data from a large scale sensor network. This data will then effect game play in real time. The game will most likely manifest as a first person shooter. Maps will also need to be created.

Prerequisites: -Game programing experience -3D graphics programing experience (DirectX, OpenGL) Pluses: -NPC "bot" programming -Data visualization experience -HCI experience

Contact: areben@mit.edu

6/12/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Joe Paradiso

Project Title: Real time pen-based wireless music controller

Project Description: we are developing a real-time wireless music controller and discusses the conversion of common motor motion of handwriting into an innovative form of music expression. www.mit.edu/~nanwei/MusicGrip.pdf The UROP student will learn about how to program embedded microcontroller and interactive computer music programming during the summer and build a wireless version base on the first iteration of our device.

Prerequisites: some experience with embedded C micro-controller programming and basic knowledge of the content of 6.115 or have interests in learning interactive computer music programming such as PD, MAX/MSP, jitter or a strong desire to learn everything above and make some noise in the summer...

Contact: nanwei@media.mit.edu http://www.media.mit.edu/resenv/projects.html

6/12/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Joe Paradiso

Project Title: Location-based social networking portals

Project Description: We are developing a location-based social networking web interface/database as an extending platform for the ubiquitous sensor portals deployed in the Media Laboratory. http://www.media.mit.edu/resenv/portals/

Prerequisites: a basic understanding of the Internet, SSH, MySQL, and Unix, some experience with PHP or some other coding language ? such as Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, or Python

Contact: nanwei@media.mit.edu http://www.media.mit.edu/resenv/portals/

6/2/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MKI/LIGO Laboratory
Faculty Supervisor: F. Donovan (direct)/ E. Katsavounidis

Project Title: Computing Assistant

Project Description: LIGO (the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) is installing a High Performace Computing cluster of about 500 compute nodes in the new Bates facility in Middleton, MA. We seek an undergraduate assistant in installing the nodes both at the hardware level (i.e., installing in the racks, network wiring, etc) as well as at the software level (i.e., kickstart configuring nodes, and other cluster configuration work- especially interested in a ruby based cluster monitoring system particularly for SMART disk monitoring). Following installation and benchmarking of the cluster, involvement with the actual analysis of received data from LIGO for the purpose of identification of potential sources is welcomed and encouraged. MIT provides shuttle service between the MIT campus and Bates Laboratory.

Start: June 1 - August 31 (and/or any part of this)
Full or Part Time -- hours flexible

Contact: kats@ligo.mit.edu; 617.258.9218

6/2/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Aerospace Controls Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Jonathan How

Project Title: Summer UROPs for project based on Darpa Grand Challenge

Project Description: We are looking for up to two students to participate in implementing a path planning/classification module on autonomous cars in our lab. This work is part of a project sponsored by Ford to recreate the behavior of drivers on intersections and implement it on real hardware, in order to develop better collision avoidance mechanisms. The students will be working on cutting edge path planning techniques (based on the Darpa Grand Challenge MIT software) in the motion capture RAVEN facility of our lab.

Dates: As early as June 1st until end of August (for pay).

Requirements: Strong programming skills in C++, java and/or Matlab. Previous experience with hardware (e.g. robotics lab) is preferred.

Contact: Georges Aoude (gaoude@mit.edu)

6/2/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST
Faculty Supervisor: Ram Sasisekharan

Project Title: Development of a New Computational Tool for Quantitative Characterization of Biomolecular Interactions

Project Description: The aim of this research is to develop a new computational tool for understanding the factors governing affinity and specificity of biomolecular interactions at a very fundamental level. For this, we will be using state-of-the-art molecular simulation, biophysical modeling, and biochemical computation tools. Upon the successful completion of this mentored research, the UROP student will be credited with authorship on publications arising from this work. There will also be ample opportunities to work on exciting related research avenues.

Prerequisites: Given the interdisciplinary and fundamental nature of this research, the UROP is ideally suited for EECS majors seeking to gain exposure to computational molecular structural biology, or students from other majors (particularly BE/ChemE/Physics/Material Sciences) with strong programming skills. This project is a great way to gain valuable research experience for those seeking to pursue graduate studies (MS/MD/PhD) in the emerging fields of structural biophysics, molecular modeling, atomic-scale simulation of materials, computational chemistry, drug design, biomolecular medicine, and bioinformatics. This UROP will also benefit those seeking to gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art computational/analytical/simulation tools used extensively in pharmaceutical and biotechnology-based industries.

Contact: venk@mit.edu, Venkataraman Soundararajan, Bldg 16-560, x3-7666

6/2/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST
Faculty Supervisor: Marco F. Ramoni

Project Title: Computational Systems Biology of cancer diagnosis and progression

Project Description: We are looking for an EECS (or other engineering/math/physics) major with background in probability, statistics, and/or machine learning for projects involving applications of machine learning to work on bioinformatics and cancerous genetic networks. You will have a chance to work with Dr. Chang under Prof. Ramoni (HST affiliated faculty). Some features of this particular UROP include: - Potential for a high-impact publication by the end of the internship (previous students alums have won national awards and have been accepted to top graduate/medical programs including Harvard MD/PhD). - Networking at Harvard Medical School community via lab meetings, journal club, seminars, etc. - A self-contained project that can be done within a semester or two- but also has room for expansion for the ambitious student. - Flexible work hours - Independence (can be a plus or minus- i.e. student must be highly motivated and put in the time to be successful). - Flexible work location (desk space will be available at New Research Building with the rest of the group as well). - Flexible start/end dates.

Prerequisites: Programming skills is a plus (CS, engineering, math, physics background a plus).

Contact: Web: http://bcl.med.harvard.edu; Prof Ramoni: mfr@mit.edu; Dr Chang: hsun-hsien.chang@childrens.harvard.edu

5/26/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Pattie Maes

Project Title: Signs Instant Messenger

Project Description: Signs Instant Messenger is a new kind of online mediated chat system, employing native structural design elements to reduce ambiguity and increase communications efficacy. We have already designed, studied, and published on the first iteration, and now we are making changes to the system for the next iteration. Please join us in this fun design exercise that will change how we communicate online, plausible by throwing out all the old rules!

Prerequisites: Good knowledge of object-oriented programming in general, ideally experience with Flash/Flex and event-driven programming models. You must already know how to program. Graphic design talents a major plus.

Contact: Contact azinman@media.mit.edu, and try/see the 1.0 online right now at http://signs.media.mit.edu!

5/26/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Comparative Media Studies (CMS)
Faculty Supervisor: William Uricchio

Project Title: Open Park: Making News Open Source and Collaborative

Project Description: Interested in re-writing the rules of social interactions and content creation and circulation? Frustrated by the lack of privacy and security of current communication channels? We are developing a pioneering platform for the seamless creation and distribution of digital data among selected recipients, and are looking for a UROP with Web design and graphic design skills to build the Website of one of its applications a new reporting/newsgathering collaborative tool for professional and citizen journalists covering the same beats/topics to share ideas and resources in unprecedented ways. If you have innovative ideas for a visually engaging, highly interactive, open source Website, we want to hear from you. This is a paid position.

Prerequisites: Strong web design, graphic design and user interface design skills, excellent visual design ability, an interest in the social aspects of the online world, and creative ideas for designing the future of communication tools. HTML, XML, PHP, CSS. Familiarity with Drupal preferred.

Contact: Please send resume and cover letter [with a link to your portfolio optional] to Florence Gallez, fgallez@mit.edu

5/26/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST/ Mechanical Engineering / Anesthesia & Critical Care / Pulmonary Functional Imaging & Modeling
Faculty Supervisor: Jose Venegas

Project Title: Understanding Mechanisms in Asthma via the use of PET and CT imaging

Project Description: The student will be analyzing the data from PET-CT imaging studies to identify the differences between scans from healthy and asthmatic individuals. The main focus will be analyzing different airway measurements and correlate them to measurements of regional ventilation. The analysis of PET data will require the student to be familiar with MATLAB. In addition, he/she will be trained to use a cutting-edge software for 3D airway tree reconstruction to obtain airway measurements from CT data. The student can also get some exposure to experimental study which takes place in the hospital.

Prerequisites: MATLAB and good engineering skills

Contact: Mint Chanikarn Wongviriyawong (minto@mit.edu)

5/26/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Biology
Faculty Supervisor: Leonard Guarente

Project Title: Role of SirT1 in osteoporosis.

Project Description: As mammals age, the cells that make bone (osteoblasts) decrease while the cells that break down bone (osteoclasts) increase, resulting in age-related or post-menopausal osteoporosis. SirT1, the mammalian orthologue of yeast Sir2 (a pro-longevity gene), has been shown to be a negative regulator of PPARγ and NFκB, two transcription factors important for the differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, respectively. We are currently investigating the role of SirT1 in osteoporosis, specifically trying to understand its function at the molecular level.

Prerequisites: Previous research experience in molecular biology required.

Contact: kayvan@mit.edu, http://web.mit.edu/biology/guarente/

5/26/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Lincoln Laboratory
Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Keh-Ping Dunn

Project Title: Programming and Analysis

Project Description: MIT Lincoln Laboratory's Missile Defense Elements Group seeks a UROP to be involved in the coding support of a system analysis tool development in a parallel computing environment. The UROP intern is expected to do some Java programming and analysis of simulation results. The UROP intern will learn techniques for parallel computing and work in a parallel computing facility.

Prerequisites: The successful candidate must be working towards a BS degree in Computer Science or Engineering and be proficient in Java. Some knowledge of parallel computing would be a plus.

Contact: To apply for this project, please submit your resume to http://www.ll.mit.edu/college/oncampus.html by adhering to the following procedure: 1)The search screen will appear. 2) Click Search, The answer set will appear. 3) Select Requisition #1263 4) A new screen will appear. Click Create Profile (top right of screen) and submit your information. Please include resume and transcript (if available). U.S. Citizenship is Required.

5/20/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Dept. of Chemical Engineering/Langer Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Institute Professor Robert S. Langer

Project Title: Micro-arrayed Polymers for Stem Cell Engineering

Project Description: A paid summer UROP position is available for a highly motivated student interested in the development of high throughput synthesis and assay of micro-arrayed polymers. The polymer array will be screened for various materials directed cell behavior including stem cell differentiation and reprogramming. The student will learn a variety of skills from automated materials synthesis to stem cell culture and quantitative data analysis. We would prefer a dedicated student who is willing to commit for long-term research.

Prerequisites: All highly motivated students are welcome to apply.

Backgrounds in the following are a plus: biology/bioengineering, chemistry/chemical engineering, and materials science and engineering. The student with experience in programming is also encouraged to apply.

Contact: Please send a resume with course list/GPA score to Dr. Ying Mei (ymei@mit.edu)

5/20/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: CMS
Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Henry Jenkins & Prof. William Uricchio

Project Title: Open Park: Making News Open Source and Collaborative

Project Description: Interested in re-writing the rules of social interactions and content creation and circulation? Frustrated by the lack of privacy and security of current communication channels? We are developing a pioneering platform for the seamless creation and distribution of digital data among selected recipients, and are looking for a UROP with Web design and graphic design skills to build the Website of one of its applications a new reporting/newsgathering collaborative tool for professional and citizen journalists covering the same beats/topics to share ideas and resources in unprecedented ways. If you have innovative ideas for a visually engaging, highly interactive, open source Website, we want to hear from you. This is a paid position.

Prerequisites: Strong web design, graphic design and user interface design skills, excellent visual design ability, an interest in the social aspects of the online world, and creative ideas for designing the future of communication tools. HTML, XML, PHP, CSS. Familiarity with Drupal preferred.

Contact: Please send resume and cover letter [with a link to your portfolio optional] to Florence Gallez at fgallez@mit.edu

5/20/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Alex (Sandy) Pentland

Project Title: Economic Exchanges in Social Networks

Project Description: We need someone to help us prepare an experimental platform and conduct experiments on economic exchanges in social networks. We are making an exchange game in which people make bilateral exchanges with their friends. We are designing experiments around this game. We plan to finish the development around the middle of the summer and then carry on the experiments. You will be encouraged to come up with your ideas, participate in the design of the game and the application. If you are interested, we can look into extending it through the fall and do some more projects that you may propose.

Prerequisites: Prior experience with web application development and databases will be very helpful but good programming skills and a little hacking ability will do.

Contact: amani@mit.edu

5/20/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT ESD
Faculty Supervisor: Richard C. Larson

Project Title: Tracking Swine Flu Worldwide

Project Description: Working with a team of MIT and Harvard researchers in tracking the progression of the H1N1 ("Swine") flu over the course of space and time, from January this year to the present day. Acquiring information that is both quantitative (numbers of infected people, by country and by state) and qualitative (e.g., use of social distancing and other preventative steps). Comparison to alternative mathematical models of disease progression and control. Two paid UROP positions available.

Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of statistics, spreadsheets and data gathering. Interest in mathematical modeling of infectious diseases. Commitment to goals of the project.

Contact: Richard C. Larson, E40-233, X3-3604, rclarson@mit.edu

5/15/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Brain and Cognitive Sciences
Faculty Supervisor: Ki Ann Goosens

Project Title: Fear Extinction mechanisms

Project Description: Extinction of fear memories is essential for termination of fear responses and in the clinic, it is used as a strategy for the treatment of psychiatric diseases based on fear, such as phobias, panic attacks, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is crucial to understand the mechanisms of fear extinction, which may well contribute to the discovery of new therapies for anxiety-type disorders. We are studying fear extinction by exploring the formation of new memories on every level of neuroscience; from genes to neurons to behavior. The project involves learning of several techniques from molecular biology to behavior.

Prerequisites: Curiosity, enthusiasm and time! Specific skills will be taught throughout your time in the lab. We are looking for students who can participate in lab 12+ hours a week during the semester and at least 30 hours a week during IAP and summer. Students who will be here at MIT for at least 1.5 years are strongly encouraged to apply.

Contact: scorreia@mit.edu

Project Title: Multipath Signal Propagation in Epilepsy

Project Description: We are studying how epileptic activity in the brain propagates during seizure evolution. We are specifically examining the role of brain malformations in multi-path seizure propagation using scalp and intracranial EEG recordings. We are developing models to describe the complex propagation of this activity across brain regions
Prerequisites: To have completed 18.03, 18.06 (or equivalent), 6.041 (or equivalent) and 6.003 The student will be asked to perform data analysis of EEG signal using different processing methodologies, under the the supervision of the PI. The research will be conducted at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, in the Department of Neurology

Contact: Caterina Stamoulis, caterina@mit.edu, or cstamoul@bidmc.harvard.edu

5/15/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Ramesh Raskar

Project Title: Optical Motion Capture and Actuated Feedback

Project Description: We are looking for a highly motivated student for a project that spans topics in electronics and bio-interface. We are building a wearable fabric to support millimeter accurate location and bio-parameter tracking at thousands of points on the body. Such a fabric can compute and predict 3D representations of human activity and use them for a closed-loop control to augment human performance. The goal is to support a detailed analysis and control of higher-level human activity. The basic technology uses a new optical motion capture method we have recently developed.
Prerequisites: Strong background and experience in circuit board design and electronics (especially photosensors and emitters), as well as PIC programming. Related Video: http://web.media.mit.edu/~raskar/prakash/

Contact: Prof. Ramesh Raskar, raskar(at)media(.)mit(.)edu, http://web.media.mit.edu/~raskar/ , http://cameraculture.info/

5/15/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Ramesh Raskar

Project Title: Computational Imaging (optics and image processing)

Project Description: The 'Camera Culture' group has two openings for Computational Photography projects. Computational photography combines plentiful computing, digital sensors, modern optics, actuators, and smart lights to escape the limitations of traditional film cameras and enables novel imaging applications. Unbounded dynamic range, variable focus, resolution, and depth of field, hints about shape, reflectance, and lighting, and new interactive forms of photos that are partly snapshots and partly videos are just some of the new applications found in Computational Photography. We are building new types of cameras and building algorithms for processing the captured images. (More info http://raskar.info/photo/ )

Prerequisites: Strong background and experience in optics, image processing as well as PIC programming.

Contact: Prof. Ramesh Raskar, raskar(at)media(.)mit(.)edu, http://web.media.mit.edu/~raskar/ , http://cameraculture.info/

5/15/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: ME / LMP
Faculty Supervisor: David Hardt

Project Title: Ultrasonic bonding for microfluidic chips

Project Description: Our lab is currently focused on manufacturing processes and equipment for producing polymer-based microfluidic devices (labs on a chip). This involves fabricating microscopic channels in a plastic plate, either by hot embossing a thermoplastic or by casting a thermoset. Next, a cover plate must be bonded to enclose the channels. A range of bonding techniques could be used to enclose microchannels with a cover plate, but each has its drawbacks. One technique that has a lot of promise, but has received comparatively little attention, is ultrasonic welding. This project will use the ultrasonic welding machine in the LMP machine shop to test this technique for bonding cover plates. It will involve design and fabrication of mold sets and bonding hardware, and testing different bonding parameters. This project has a lot of room for inventive mold designs that enhance ultrasonic bonding, and could potentially produce a conference or journal publication.

Prerequisites: Interest in hands-on design, fabrication, and experiments. Experience with CNC machining (eg 2.008) is helpful.

Contact: mdirckx@mit.edu http://web.mit.edu/~mdirckx/Public/Summer09_Projects.pdf

5/15/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Francis Bitter Magnet Lab and Dept. of Chemistry
Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Robert G. Griffin

Project Title: M2 protein of influenza A virus

Project Description: We are conducting structural studies of the influenza A virus protein M2 using solid state NMR. We are looking for a UROP to help design a synthesis and purification protocol for this protein. The protein will be expressed in E-Coli and purified by chromatography, and both of these steps need to be optimized. Once purified, we will reconstituted the protein in lipid bilayers and determine precise structural information that is of particular interest to virologists and medicinal chemists. We are looking for a student with interest in biochemistry and NMR. The M2 protein from influenza A virus is a 97 amino acid single pass membrane protein that functions as pH-activated H+ channel. When the pH of the medium bathing the N-terminal domain is <6.5, then the channel conducts H+, whereas at pH>7.5 the channel is closed. The protein exists as a tetramer in the membrane and the four TM helices form a channel through which H+ conduction occurs. Two side-by-side publications depicted conflicting drug bindings sites. In a crystal structure of the transmembrane (TM) domain, M2(22-46), the drug Amantadine was placed at an electron density observed within the pore. In the solution NMR structure of a larger construct, M2(18-60), NOE contacts between the drug and the c-terminal base of the peptide indicated 4 equivalent binding sites on the outside of the channel. With Solid state NMR, we can determine the binding site of this protein in a native lipid membrane. Eventual goals are determination of open and closed state structures.

Prerequisites: Candidates for this position should have some wetlab experience, preferably in biochemistry or molecular biology. An interest in magnetic resonance is a plus.

Contact: Prof. Robert G. Griffin NW14-3220, MIT rgg@mit.edu

5/11/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Ramesh Raskar

Project Title: Digital projection for Art Conservation

Project Description: The MIT Media Lab and the Harvard Art Museum are collaborating on a digital projection, imaging and color science project to restore Mark Rothko's Harvard Murals. The five monumental paintings from 1963 were painted in the era of abstract expressionism and belong to the most important American art works of that time. The mural paintings have changed color over the years due to the use of fugitive pigments and excessive light exposure. Using digital projectors and pixel by pixel color correction the original color appearance of the paintings will be recreated. Our project will restore one of the most important room installations in American art history to an exhibitable state. This will also be groundbreaking research for the future restoration of art objects using digital imaging and projection technology. You will have opportunity to work at the Straus Center for Conservation and Technical Studies at the Harvard Art Museum at its temporary laboratory space in East Somerville. This is a live research project. Tasks will include calculating color correction from before and after fading photographs, implementing automatic registration of the projection and testing the procedure on a faded mock-up painting.

Prerequisites: Preferred experience includes imaging and/or color science. MATLAB or equivalent programming expertise is a must. Familiarity with projector technology is useful.

Contact: Prof. Ramesh Raskar, raskar@media.mit.edu, Jens Stenger, jens_stenger@harvard.edu

5/11/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Alex (Sandy) Pentland

Project Title: Mobile feedback system supporting small group collaboration

Project Description: The Human Dynamics group has paid/credit UROP positions for the summer. Students will design/conduct lab experiments to evaluate the mobile feedback system for data collected by the Sociometric badge, a wearable sensor platform. The studies focus on understanding how small groups work, and to support them using real time sensing technology. Students can also help develop mobile interaction techniques on iPhones. Ideal candidate is someone interested in mobile user interfaces and user studies.

Prerequisites: Experience in conducting human subject experiments preferred Some level of knowledge in statistics, and programming experience a plus.

Contact: taemie@mit.edu

5/11/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Department of Chemical Engineering/Langer Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Institute Professor Robert S. Langer

Project Title: High-throughput screening of biomaterials for cell encapsulation

Project Description: Our group is currently making an effort to develop combinatorial library of novel biocompatible biomaterials for cell encapsulation. The screened biomaterials will be tested for their biocompatibility (inflammation, fibrosis) and beta-cell encapsulation for potential use of diabetes treatment in vitro and in vivo. UROPs will learn about biomaterial preparation, cell culture, molecular biological analysis, and also can experience small animal experiment for in vivo screening. The student will work closely with Dr. Seung-Woo Cho for this project. We would prefer a dedicated student who can be committed for long-term research (this summer 2009 and at least next semester 2009).

Prerequisites: Experience with animal cell culture is preferred, but not necessarily.

Contact: Please send your CV to Dr. Seung-Woo Cho: seungwoo@mit.edu

5/11/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST/CSAIL
Faculty Supervisor: Marco Ramoni

Project Title: Predictive Bioinformatics of Asthma

Project Description: A UROP with some programming experience is wanted for a project in predicting asthma from whole-genome DNA datasets. Recent advances in genotyping mechanisms have made it possible to representatively sample the entirety of the human genome in a sizable cohort of medical study participants. The project will analyze the genome-wide scans of several hundred asthma patients to discover the relationship between DNA and asthma. The undergraduate will initially help with the identification and analysis of a suitable control dataset for comparison. Phase two of the project is to apply machine learning or pattern matching techniques to automatically determine the difference between patients with asthma and healthy controls. For qualified undergrads able to continue work through the following semesters, authorship on the resulting paper is possible.

Prerequisites: A successful candidate will have some experience with R or MATLAB, some knowledge of classical or Bayesian statistics, and some exposure to machine learning methods or ideas.

Contact: Please send resume and letter of interest to Michael McGeachie at mmcgeach@csail.mit.edu

5/11/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Chemistry
Faculty Supervisor: Moungi Bawendi

Project Title: Visual C++ programming for Camera Acquistion System

Project Description: Our group have developed a novel imaging device to assist surgeons during tumor removal surgery and preliminary results are very encouraging. We are seeking a UROP to develop custom Visual C++/Visual Basic modules to control our camera on-the-fly and speed up the image acquisition system. The ideal candidate will develop the code, troubleshoot it and test it with the actual imaging device. This is a fast-paced project and funding will be provided by the Supervisor.

Prerequisites: Advanced Visual C++/Visual Basic programming and experience with interface of hardware and image/data acquisition system LabView and/or optics experience strongly desirable but not required

Contact: Jorge Ferrer, PhD Post-Doctoral Fellow Room: 18-080 Lab phone: 617-253-8594 email: ferrerj@mit.edu

5/5/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Center for Collective Intelligence / Sloan School of Management
Faculty Supervisor: Thomas Malone

Project Title: The CCI Climate Collaboratorium.

Project Description: We are looking for undergraduates with an interest in developing a novel Web-based tool designed to leverage the collective intelligence of many to address climate change. In initial versions of our tool, thousands of users (or more!) will collaboratively develop plans for addressing climate change and then test those plans by using simulation models. In designing software to support this goal, we face the following challenges: How can we bring together diverse models so they can be used to test the range of possible plans that might be developed to address climate change? How can we support the activities of many in selecting among a complex parameter space over a number of competing models? How can we combine the preferences of many to develop a best-case plan that we might strive to put in place as a global society? How can we build an interface that is not only flexible enough to support many complicated use-cases, but also simple enough to be readily used by non-technical end-users? We are interested in applicants possessing experience with: Server-side web-software, especially Java servlets and server pages (JSPs). Client-side technology, including HTML, Javascript and Flash/FLEX. Also desirable is experience with implementation of artificial intelligence and/or mathematical algorithms, especially involving work with ontologies, operations research, and systems dynamics. Applicants with demonstrable coding ability will be given preference. We are on an ambitious timeline, and are hoping to have a production site running by the end of the summer.

Prerequisites: Coding expertise, an interest in developing novel web-based platforms for collective intelligence, an interest in helping to do something about climate change.

Contact: jintrone@mit.edu; rjl@mit.edu

5/5/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: House_n
Faculty Supervisor: Stephen Intille

Project Title: Annotating Sensor Data on Home Behavior

Project Description: Seeking summer full or part-time UROP student to help on a research project using sensing technologies to study behavior in the homes of volunteer participants. Primary responsibilities will involve annotating audio/video recordings of home behavior using a computer program to mark when certain key events have occurred. Additional activities will in include managing large sensor datasets and participating in site visits to collect sensor data from study participants. Depending on the background of the selected UROP student, additional responsibilities related to data analysis and/or computer programming are possible. The selected UROP student will gain experience in natural observation (experimental design and ethnography), as well as learning annotation techniques and strategies for using sensor data to improve technology design. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in behavioral science and its implications for user interface design. Possibility for a flexible (part-time) schedule.

Prerequisites: Requires attention to detail, comfort with repetitive annotation tasks, familiarity with MS Windows, and interest in observation techniques for user interface design.

Contact: Contact: Send a resume and a paragraph describing why you are interested in this position to Jason Nawyn (nawyn@mit.edu).

5/5/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: House_n
Faculty Supervisor: Stephen Intille

Project Title: Open Source Wireless Sensor Development

Project Description: Seeking a UROP student interested in electronics to help us develop and test open source wireless sensors that send accelerometer data to common mobile phones via Bluetooth. The student will work with a small team to test the performance characteristics of the current version of Wockets, improve the firmware, and design the next generation of the hardware, firmware, and housing. See http://web.mit.edu/wockets for project overview, current design information, etc. Opportunities to be co-author on academic publications.

Prerequisites: Required: Experience with digital electronics and PCB design; C programming skills (for firmware development). Desirable: Experience programming wireless sensors and/or ATMEL processors; C# or Java programming experience on mobile devices

Contact: Send resume and cover letter to Stephen Intille (intille@mit.edu)

5/5/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: House_n
Faculty Supervisor: Stephen Intille

Project Title: Detecting Physical Activity using Mobile Phones and Wireless Motion Sensors

Project Description: Seeking a UROP student to help develop new open-source software for mobile phones that can automatically detect physical activity type, intensity, and duration using small MIT-designed wireless, wearable accelerometers (see http://web.mit.edu/wockets). The student will help us to collect example data of people performing physical activities, test and improve the sensor technology and activity detection algorithms, and write software for mobile phones that to automatically determine what people are doing and estimate their energy expenditure using pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms. The student may also help us run experiments using similar data collected by collaborators at Vanderbilt, Stanford University, University of Rhode Island, and elsewhere. Opportunities to be co-author on academic publications.

Prerequisites: Required: Strong Java and/or C# programming skills.

Helpful: At least one course in pattern recognition, machine learning, signal processing, or AI; Experience programming mobile phones, especially Windows Mobile.

Contact: Send resume and cover letter to Stephen Intille (intille@mit.edu)

5/4/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Environmental Microfluidics Group
Faculty Supervisor: Roman Stocker

Project Title: Biofilms and Carbon Sequestration

Project Description: Biofilms are formed when bacterial cells attach to surfaces and secrete sticky polymeric substances. Despite their ungainly description, biofilms play a crucial role in many chronic diseases, antibiotic resistance, biofouling, wastewater treatment, and porous media (aquifer) flows. We are currently looking for a UROP student as part of an ongoing project that investigates how bacterial biofilms can be engineered to assist carbon sequestration in underground aquifers. Depending on the organisms and aquifer, biofilms can either increase the effective permeability of the aquifer (often used in enhanced oil recovery) or can clog pores with biomass, rendering them impermeable. Recent work has suggested that the latter process could address blow out , a major hindrance to large-scale carbon sequestration in aquifers. By engineering an impermeable barrier of biofilm between sequestered carbon and the ground surface, leakage of greenhouse gases back into the atmosphere could be minimized. We have developed novel microfluidic devices to study biofilm formation in porous media that can allow us to understand which conditions lead to enhanced permeability and which conditions induce pore blocking. The ability to manipulate environmental conditions like pore structure, flow rates, microbial species, and substrates provides us with unprecedented control in factors leading to biofilm formation. Quantification of the experiments is done through video-microscopy, allowing us to interrogate pore scale processes. The UROP student will be responsible for performing image analysis on experimental images of biofilm formation. The results of their analysis will yield insight into biomass growth, its coupling with fluid flow and the ensuing spatial heterogeneity of the film, the existence of preferential flow channels, and diffusive transport of nutrients to the biofilm. The UROP student will require advanced Matlab experience and will gain valuable knowledge on the relation between microbes and carbon sequestration, microbial ecology, microfluidics and image analysis.

Prerequisites: A strong background in Matlab programming. Course 6, 8, and 18 students are especially urged to apply.

Contact: Mack Durham (durham@mit.edu) Please send your resume and availability over the summer.

5/4/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Operations Research Center and Sloan School
Faculty Supervisor: Michael Braun

Project Title: Statistical Analysis of Customer Subscription Activity

Project Description: My research centers around the development of data-based probability models of customer behavior. One area of interest in understanding which customers of a service organization (such as a telecommunications company) are most likely to disconnect, when they are likely to disconnect, and why. My current project involves analyzing a data set of customer activity (provided by a large cable television company) using powerful tools of Bayesian statistical analysis, such as Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms. I am looking for a UROP to help me write the computer code that will implement these methods. \\ Most of the programming will be done in C, using GSL (the GNU Scientific Library), with other parts in R (a popular statistical programming language) and SQL. To start, you will help me validate and debug some of the code I have already written. As we progress, I will ask you to write new code that will be included in the final algorithm. By the end of the summer, I hope to be collecting results from the algorithm, and I ll need some help with that. There is also an opportunity to extend the functionality of GSL by writing some functions that I wish were included, but aren t. This project is in its early stages, you will have an opportunity to make a substantial impact. Indeed, since I am not a computer scientist, or a programmer by training, your computer skills may be stronger than mine (I have a lot of experience with R, but much less with C). This is why I need the help of a smart MIT student to work directly with me to speed up the code development process. \\ This UROP is ideal for a student who is interested in numerical computation (simulation, optimization, etc) and/or statistical analysis of business-related data. I expect that by the end of the project, if all goes well, you will have a deep understanding of the numerical estimation procedures that business and economics researchers use on a regular basis. When possible, I can also tailor the assignments to match!
your interests. (For example, if you were interested in parallel computing, we could find parts of the code that could benefit from parallelization. If not, we ll find something else.)

Prerequisites: The most important prerequisite is some experience programming in C, *and* working in a Unix/Linux environment. MATLAB is useful (R is a lot like MATLAB), but not sufficient; you need to know how to compile code, link to external libraries, and so forth. If you have extensive programming experience, but just not in C (for example, C++ or Java), let me know. In addition, you should have strong communications skills, and be organized and reliable.

Requirements: I would like to hire a student who is available at least 25 hours a week during the summer (I can support up to 40 hours). The schedule will be normal business hours, with a lot of flexibility (you will be working independently most of the time). I am open to extending this UROP into future semesters if all goes well. This position is available for either pay or credit.

Contact: Professor Michael Braun, braunm@mit.edu, scripts.mit.edu/~braunm

5/4/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology
Faculty Supervisor: Jeffrey M. Karp

Project Title: Nature-inspired Biomedical Adhesives and Improved Dental Implants

Project Description: 1. Nature-inspired Biomedical Adhesives: Traditional suturing and stapling technology that issued for sealing wounds has many disadvantages. Medical adhesive glues have utility but are not suitable for most applications. To replace traditional adhesive technologies, we have focused on the development of new biomedical adhesives and have found some models in Nature. We have developed gecko-inspired medical adhesives that were recently published in PNAS as a cover feature (PNAS 2008, 105, 2307.). We are currently designing stronger adhesives that will be useful for multiple medical applications. 2. Improved Dental Implants: Dental implants are placed in the mouth, which constitutes a highly septic medium since various types of commensal and pathogenic bacteria colonize teeth. After long-term implantation, the loss of dental implants has been reported to be caused by bacteria infection. Improved design is required for prevention of inflammation of the peri-implant tissues and implants with long-term stability. We have developed a new design using a nanoporous system. We are looking for highly motivated students willing to work 40hrs per week during the summer and then continue into the fall term.

Prerequisites: The ideal candidate will have expertise with material science, fabrication of micro/nanostructures, and surface modification chemistry.

Contact: If you are interested please contact: Dr. Woo Kyung Cho (wkcho@mit.edu or www.karplab.net) and be sure to send your CV.

5/1/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Rosalind Picard

Project Title: Bluetooth, mobile phone, server development

Project Description: We have an opening for a summer UROP student to develop various software applications on a mobile phone that incorporate Bluetooth, user menus, and post data to a web server. The primary short term application is banking, but there are certainly many potential applications.

Prerequisites: Programming experience -- Java J2ME is preferred, but Windows Mobile is also an option (or even both). Some server side progamming may also be needed to accept data being sent from mobile phone. We seek UROP students with good JAVA skills and at least basic knowledge of PHP, PERL, and MySQL, for server side programming. We are looking for a responsible student who is able to work independently and open to continuing working in our group into the fall term and beyond.

Contact: Please contact: Dr. Rich Fletcher (fletcher@media.mit.edu) (and mention for which project you are applying)

5/1/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Rosalind Picard

Project Title: Wireless Biosensors

Project Description: We have an opening for a summer UROP student to help develop new wireless sensors that detect physiological data (heart rate, skin conductance, movement, ECG, etc). These are used in our group for a variety of medical studies (autism, sleep research, epilepsy, etc.) as well as consumer applications (media advertising, security systems, nursing homes, fitness/sports, etc.)<p>General hardware tasks: circuit board layout, circuit testing and assembly. Some sewing might be required to embed the sensors inside clothing and wrist bands. Opportunities are also available to write firmware for our sensors if student is interested.

Prerequisites: Training will be provided for advanced hardware design, but we are looking for a student with good hardware skills and soldering experience and any relevant lab experience (6.002, 6.101, 6.121 etc). Ability to sew (or at least make an effort) is desired. Firmware experience is a plus. We are looking for a responsible student who is able to work independently with good attention to detail. We are also looking for students that are open open to continuing working in our group in the Fall and beyond.

Contact: Please contact: Dr. Rich Fletcher (fletcher@media.mit.edu) (and mention for which project you are applying)

4/30/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST
Faculty Supervisor: Randy Gollub

Project Title: Medical Image Computing Software: Open Source Engineer

Project Description: We need someone to work with advanced CT and MRI 3D image data and cross platform open source software systems (3D Slicer, VTK, ITK and related tools). Responsibilities include testing functionality of rapidly evolving software as new features are added and troubleshooting of extensive curriculum of image analysis tutorials. This UROP will work with training materials aimed at both doctors and programmers. All software, data, and training materials for this project are open source. The ideal candidate will work well independently, but communicate effectively with a dynamic, distributed development and user community via email, wiki, and face to face meetings.

Prerequisites: Experience with Windows, Mac, and Linux software installation, compilation, and operation. Programming experience on at least one platform required. Interest in biology and medical imaging required. Prior 3D graphics or image analysis experience preferred. For the academic year, a commitment of at least 10 hours per week in the lab is required. The stipend offered for this position will exceed the UROP minimum; the exact level will depend on relevant prior laboratory training and experience. Candidates who can continue with us as UROPs into IAP and the 2009 spring semester and summer are preferred.

Project websites:
http://www.na-mic.org
http:// www.slicer.org
http://www.vtk.org
http://www.itk.org
http:// www.cmake.org

Contact: Professor Randy Gollub, MD PhD, 617-724-9602

4/30/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Biological Microtechnology & BioMEMS Group/RLE
Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Joel Voldman

Project Title: Cyborg moths: MEMS-based flight control in moths

Project Description: This summer UROP project is to work as part of a team developing microfabricated systems capable of guiding the flight of the giant hawkmoth Manduca sexta. This is a multidisciplinary program between engineers at MIT, insect neuroscientists at the University of Arizona, and a flight biomechanics group at the University of Washington. As part of this program, we are developing microelectrodes to interface with the central nervous system of the moth to alter its flight path. This particular UROP project will involve implantation these microfabricated electrodes into moths and then using electrical stimulation to evoke moth motion. The project will be a combination of insect surgery, electronics packaging, test, and data interpretation.

Prerequisites: A willingness to perform both biological experiments (electrode implantation & dissection) as well as electrical stimulation on moth.

Contact: Please email your resume\cv to Wei Mong, Tsang (wmtsang@mit.ed). Highlight in the body of the email any information about your background/interests that may be relevant to this project.

4/30/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Joseph Jacobson

Project Title: Microfluidic Gene and Protein Synthesis

Project Description: The molecular machines group at the MIT Media Lab is immediately seeking qualified UROPs for summer 2009. Students will work on research projects at the intersection of the fields of synthetic biology and microfluidics, or lab-on-a-chip technology. Specifically, students will work on the design and fabrication of microfluidic devices for on-chip fabrication of synthetic genes and proteins. Applications include the on-chip synthesis of olfactory receptors for a novel artificial nose biosensor with the MIT RealNose team.

Prerequisites: Experience in microfluidics, device fabrication, molecular biology, DNA/protein manipulation preferred. Strong work ethic, curiosity, and initiative required!

Contact: Please send your CV to David Kong, Ph.D. || dkong@mit.edu

4/30/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Urban Studies and Planning
Faculty Supervisor: Chris Zegras

Project Title: Computer Programming for Integrated Energy Modeling

Project Description: This UROP will focus on studying and adapting the OPUS (see urbansim.org) package for an integrated simulation platform of the iTEAM project. iTEAM, a project under the MIT Portugal Program, aims to develop an integrated behavioral model of land use, transportation, and energy use for the evaluation of a range of "green policies" to enhance urban sustainability and well-being. OPUS is a Python-based open source framework and process for developing and using model components and integrated model systems and facilitating increased collaboration among developers and users in the evolution of the platform and its applications. The student's work will include: 1. analyzing and understanding the organization of OPUS from the stand point of software engineering (its class hierarchy, data model, package organization, etc.); 2. identifying key modules that reflect the needs of iTEAM; 3. implementing changes/adding new packages that fulfill iTEAM goals; 4. testing and validating the system.

Prerequisites: This can be a paid or for-credit UROP. Required skills: Knowledge of Python; knowledge of Object Oriented Programming. Optional skills: Statistics; familiarity with Unix-based environments and software package installation; open-source development.

Contact: Email cover letter and CV to: Prof. Chris Zegras, czegras@mit.edu

4/28/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Center for Collective Intelligence
Faculty Supervisor: Thomas Malone

Project Title: Lab experiments for measuring collective intelligence and collective prediction

Project Description: We are looking for research assistants to work in the MIT Center for Collective Intelligence to assist in running laboratory experiments with human subjects. Responsibilities will include helping to recruit and schedule subjects, supervise subjects in the laboratory, and compile and analyze data. The first project involves measuring the collective intelligence of groups doing fun team tasks (see http://cci.mit.edu/research/measuring.html). The second project involves groups of people making predictions about uncertain future events by buying and selling shares representing these predictions (see http://cci.mit.edu/research/prediction.html). Summer jobs available now, with the possibility of extending into the next school year.

Prerequisites: Social science methods course and/or prior experience working with human subjects in a laboratory environment are preferred.

Contact: Please email a resume to: malone@mit.edu, http://cci.mit.edu

4/28/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Economic Sociology/Sloan School
Faculty Supervisor: Damon Centola

Project Title: Social Dynamics on the Internet: University Status Study

Project Description: This study will build a website for people to evaluate the status of different universities. We will evaluate how the ratings shared among Internet users alter the perceived status of different universities.
Prerequisites: Web Programming (design and database), interest in using Internet to study social dynamics

Contact: Damon Centola, dcentola@mit.edu, 617-258-8912

4/28/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MAS
Faculty Supervisor: Rosalind Picard

Project Title: Computerized Interventions to Promote Verbal Expression in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Project Description: In this project, we have designed interactive speech games to help people with speech difficulties at the autism spectrum disorder. The goal of those games are to help people with low volume and inappropriate speech rate. We are in the process of running a set of studies and collecting a lot of speech data. The next step is to running speech processing algorithms to automatically quantify any improvement of our participants in terms of producing intelligible speech. Most of the speech processing algorithms have already been developed. We need help running the algorithms to analyze the speech data and then using statistical methods to make sense out of it. There are possibilities for conference paper authorship.

Prerequisites: Programming abilities in any programming language. Familiarity with basic statistical methods.

Contact: If interested, please contact Dr. Rana el-Kaliouby at kaliouby@media.mit.edu

4/28/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Henry Holtzman

Project Title: Popular Italian Web Apps

Project Description: The Information Ecology group is developing a number of personal objects that connect to the digital aether -- wallets that get hard to open when you're over budget, earrings that heat up when someone posts a picture of you on Flickr, toasters with Twitter accounts. These are intended to explore one vision of ubiquitous computing and the impact it could have on daily lives.

Prerequisites: We need a UROP who possesses excellent art and sewing skills and knowledge of smart materials (conductive textiles, thermochromic ink, shape memory alloys, etc) to help make our devices more beautiful and compact. Experience with electronics and cutting-edge actuators are a plus.

Contact: Contact John Kestner at jkestner@media.mit.edu

4/28/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Henry Holtzman

Project Title: Process Communications and Visualize Them as Plants

Project Description: The Information Ecology group is developing Social Garden, an architecture for relationship management. It analyzes communication channels from email to Facebook to text messages in order to render friendships as plants and encourage the user to stay in contact with their social group.

Prerequisites: We're looking for UROPs to write plugins to process different kinds of messages, and create 2D parametric models and graphics of plants for visualizations. The former require coding skills in Objective C and/or Python; the latter, graphic design skills and experience with OpenGL or another flexible graphics library.

Contact: Contact John Kestner at jkestner@media.mit.edu

4/23/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Civil and Environmental Engineering
Faculty Supervisor: Ruben Juanes

Project Title: Code architecture and data conversion for construction of a numerical simulator

Project Description: Help in C++ is needed for a research project to develop a numerical simulator of complex geosystems. Work will involve simple code architecture as well as conversion of data types between two classes which were created for different commercial software. The student will interact directly with a post-doctorate associate. Terms: highly flexible hours, possible to work mostly via internet. Start time: ASAP. No commitment required as to length of occupation.

Prerequisites: C++ proficiency. Some familiarity with Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 preferred.

Contact: Ran Holtzman, rholtzman@mit.edu; http://juanesgroup.mit.edu

4/23/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department: Nuclear Science and Engineering
Faculty/Supervisor: Dick Lanza

PROJECT TITLE: Stand-Off Radiation Detection System Integration and Test

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

MIT is collaborating with Raytheon and a number of other organizations in the development of a new, long distance detection and imaging system for radioisotopes. The challenge is that the sources are relatively weak and are often found in a high background. The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) has been tasked to create a global nuclear detection architecture. This includes the development of Advanced Technology Demonstration (ATD) systems to test advanced nuclear detection technologies, plugging holes in the existing architecture. You will be working to help integrate and test such a system (the Stand-Off Radiation Detection System - SORDS).

SORDS is a mobile, 1st of-its-kind system that will be able to locate and identify radiation point sources that are up to 100 m away from the vehicle while driving on any road in the United States. SORDS will enable detection of weak or shielded threat sources from a distance while discriminating from non-threat sources.

You will be working at MIT Bates laboratory with a world-class team from Raytheon, Bubble Technologies Inc., and Los Alamos National Labs. About 75% of your time will be spent with Raytheon team members, and the remaining 25% of your time will be spent with the entire team (Raytheon, BTI, LANL, MIT). Your specific responsibilities will include:

Testing the system software and hardware using radioactive test sources (at human-safe levels)
Driving the SORDS vehicle around the MIT Bates facility to test navigation and detection capabilities, as well as source detection capabilities
Assisting as necessary during hardware and software integration
Data analysis
Participating in integration meetings
Your creative thoughts on how to push the system limits will also be welcome.

PRE-REQUISITES OR REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION:
Some hands-on experience with hardware and electronics, Ability to drive to the MIT Bates laboratory in Middleton on a daily basis, Integrity and enthusiasm

CONTACT PERSON: lanza@mit.edu or x3-2399

4/22/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Media Laboratory (Human Dynamics Group)
Faculty Supervisor: Alex (Sandy) Pentland

Project Title: Visualizing Human Behavior Patterns

Project Description: The Human Dynamics group is looking for UROPs interested in working on visualizations of sensor data from sociometric badges. A sociometric badge is a device whose main purpose is to automatically capture individual and collective patterns of behavior. We have built several hundred sociometric badges and used them in real organizations to automatically measure individual and collective patterns of behavior, predict human behavior from unconscious social signals, identify social affinity among individuals working in the same team, and enhance social interactions by providing feedback to the users of our system. The goal of this project is to visualize individual and collective patterns of human behavior from sensor data collected during previous studies (i.e. nurses working in a hospital's post-anesthesia care unit, employees working in a bank's call center, etc.).

Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of MySQL and Matlab. Experience using any visualization tool (i.e. Java, Flash, or Flare).

Contact: Please e-mail your resume and a short description of your interests to Daniel Olguin Olguin at dolguin@media.mit.edu

4/22/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Tangible Media Group/MIT Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Hiroshi Ishii

Project Title: Pictouch: Tangible Interfaces for Art Restoration

Project Description: Pictouch seeks ways to make art restoration data available to the general public through intuitive tangible touch-based interaction technique on large multi-touch displays and the web. We are building a second generation interface for evalution with art restoration professionals and museums this summer. Our interfaces will use a novel gesture recognition technique to provide intuitive ways of uncovering the history of renaissance paintings in a distributed manner.

Prerequisites: Pictouch seeks students interested to learn about multi-touch technology, art restoration, graphics, and the web.

Contact: Contact Leo Bonanni, amerigo@media.mit.edu

4/22/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Tod Machover

Project Title: Opera of the Future

Project Description: The Opera of the Future Group at the MIT Media Lab is looking for talented Computer Science students to work on Death and the Powers - an innovative new opera. We are currently looking for help with the software design for each of the three main elements of the Opera - The Walls (a set of mobile structures with multiple projection surfaces), the Chandelier (a large actuated hyperinstrument suspended above the stage), and the Opera Bots (a set of illuminated mobile robots central to the libretto). The work that needs to be done would also make for a really great UAP.

Prerequisites: Interested students should have experience in writing modular, reliable, and robust software. Possible tasks range from programming microcontrollers for robotic elements, to implementing control systems that integrate various components, to creating user interfaces for controlling, monitoring, and designing robotic motions, lighting, sound, and visual elements. Experience with Java is required. Experience with Linux, systems programming, is recommended. Familiarity with Eclipse and collaborative development, Swing, OpenGL, image/signal processing is a plus.

Contact: Interested students should contact Peter Torpey at patorpey@media.mit.edu to schedule an interview. More information on the Death and The Powers Opera can be found at http://www.media.mit.edu/hyperins/projects/deathandthepowers/

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: EAPS
Faculty Supervisor: Ron Prinn

Project Title: Instrument Design and Field Deployment for Greenhouse Gas Monitoring

Project Description: A central challenge to climate science is the linking of the large- and small-scale processes in a way that retains the character of the relationship, even under environmental changes. Greenhouse gas concentrations are affected not only by reactions in the atmosphere, but many have complex physical and biological interactions that control their concentrations. The fluxes of three gases, hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4) will be measured at the Harvard Forest Long Term Ecological Research Site (~1.5h W of Boston) using a custom-designed system combining typical instrumentation for atmospheric chemistry measurements (gas chromatography, infrared analyzer, micrometeorological instruments). The summer work will be instrument construction, testing, field deployment, field testing and initial data collection providing for much hands-on experience and creative thinking and design. Additionally, because these gases have very interesting sources or sinks due to microbiological activity in the soils, a series of soil incubation experiments will be performed. We are looking for a UROP student who is interested in using medium-scale flux tower measurements and small-scale incubation results, to understand the large-scale concentrations of gases relevant to climate. The UROP student will contribute to instrument construction and testing and will be responsible for setting up the CO2 or CH4 components. The student will travel to Harvard Forest periodically to assess the site and to deploy the instrument. If interested in soil incubations and microbiology, the UROP student could take full charge of a set of experiments that may carry on into the fall.

Prerequisites: All highly motivated students are welcome to apply. Backgrounds in the following are a plus: analytical chemistry, electronics, microbiology, climate science.

Contact: Laura Meredith, predawn@mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Chemical Engineering
Faculty Supervisor: Robert Langer

Project Title: Synthesis of structured block copolymers for delivery of siRNA

Project Description: A position is available for student(s) interested in polymer synthesis and characterization. The project is focused on synthesizing block copolymers with complex architectures for delivery of siRNA using advanced synthetic techniques (RAFT and ATRP). If you are interested in gaining research experience in polymers for biomedical engineering applications, we can set up a meeting to discuss the project in greater detail. The synthesis part would be similar to organic chemistry. Therefore, if you have taken organic lab, that would be most helpful for getting started (a good prerequisite). In addition to synthesis, you would learn characterization methods such as NMR and GPC. The project will also involve robotic combinatorial methods. Investigation of the polymers using in vitro cell culture may also be learned. Past students have gone on to medical school and to PhD programs in chemistry and biomedical engineering.

Prerequisites: Organic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry lab. Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Materials Science majors would be most suitable. Students interested in automated synthesis using fluid handling robots may also be interested (experience in programming or automation may be useful)

Contact: Daniel J. Siegwart, Ph.D. Postdoctoral Associate Department of Chemical Engineering David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research Massachusetts Institute of Technology 45 Carleton St. E25 Room 342 Cambridge, MA, 02142 siegwart@mit.edu; http://web.mit.edu/langerlab/

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Brain & Cognitive Sciences
Faculty Supervisor: Edward Gibson

Project Title: Language UROPs in Brain & Cognitive Science

Project Description: Several UROP positions are available in the language lab in the Brain and Cognitive Science Department. There are projects for people with a computer science background, and projects for people with a psychology and linguistics background. Titles of projects include: 1. Sophisticated methods for eliciting linguistic judgment data 2. Web tools for language research 3. Discourse Coherence: The Global Informational Structure of Text 4. Individual differences in working memory and language processing 5. The neural basis of language: naturalistic texts method 6. Evaluating machine translation Several paid and credit positions are available for full-time or part-time for this coming summer. Please write to Edward Gibson (egibson@mit.edu) with a description of your background (including relevant psychology, linguistics, computer science course).

Prerequisites: either: some computer science (programming skills) or: linguistics and/or psychology courses

Contact: Edward Gibson, egibson@mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Brain & Cognitive Sciences
Faculty Supervisor: Edward Gibson

Project Title: Web tools for language research

Project Description: This project will focus on helping to develop tools for running language-related experiments over the internet. While most experimental work at Tedlab is done in the lab, the internet provides a great source of potential subjects. This UROP will involve helping to write a web interface for experiments, helping to develop the tools for data collection and storage, and the validation of this method by trial experiments. Applicants should have strong programming skills, knowledge of HTML, and knowledge of or an ability to quickly learn web scripting languages (Perl, PHP, Python, etc). Funding is available.
Prerequisites: programming skills

Contact: Edward Gibson, egibson@mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Visual Arts Program/Architecture
Faculty Supervisor: Jae Rhim Lee

Project Title: Infinity Burial Project

Project Description: The Infinity Burial Project is a modest proposal for ecologically sound corpse composting and toxin remediation in the urban environment that requires a minimum of energy inputs and no dedicated burial land. The project addresses the environmental impacts of current death practices, the cultural denial of death, and the body burden of accumulated toxins in the human body. The Infinity Burial System is composed of two elements: 1) Burial Pods are constructed from urban waste products (cardboard and spent coffee grounds) and biological activators (insects, fungi, and bacteria) which decompose and remediate toxins from the corpse, thereby creating clean soil, 2) Burial Suits, 3) An alternative embalming fluid that replaces formaldehyde, and 4) Events and performances which address the cultural denial of death. The UROP would conduct research in one of the following areas: burial pod design and/or sociology/psychology of death, death/funeral practices!
.
Prerequisites: Background/Interest in one of the following: Design/Construction, sociology/psychology of death, environmental design,

Contact: http://jaerhimlee.com/work2.htm

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Biology
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Lander

Project Title: SCORING SCREENS AND ASSESSING SCREENABILITY

Project Description: Screens are large-scale experiments where cells are perturbed with thousands of different drugs or gene-inhibitory reagents, looking to find one or a few "hits," i.e., drugs or genes that influence a specific biological process. Because of the cost and effort of these large experiments, it is critical to assess the likelihood of finding hits, based on pilot experiments and statistical models. You will collect positive and negative control data from a number of existing screens. You will then test various models for selecting and assessing hits in the context of those screens.
Prerequisites: Knowledge of statistics, Python programming

Contact: Vebjorn Ljosa (ljosa@broad.mit.edu); http://www.broad.mit.edu/imaging/; http://cellprofiler.org/

Project Title: SCIENTIFIC PYTHON PROGRAMMING

Project Description: You will implement and test efficient algorithms for image segmentation, spatial filtering, and other performance-critical operations. When appropriate, you will prepare and contribute patches to SciPy and other upstream libraries. Your improvements will enable CellProfiler to analyze sets of hundreds of thousands of microscopy images from high-throughput experiments, such as genome-wide screens for cancer-related genes. Patches contributed to SciPy will benefit many areas of science.
Prerequisites: Knowledge of algorithms, Python programming, C programming

Contact: Vebjorn Ljosa (ljosa@broad.mit.edu) http://www.broad.mit.edu/imaging/http://cellprofiler.org/

Project Title: TEXTURE FEATURES

Project Description: Image textures are important for discerning cells with subtle phenotypes. You will apply a number of texture descriptors to images from actual high-throughput experiments and determine the optimal scales. You will assess the performance of rotation-invariant feature descriptors. Based on the results, you may propose alternate texture descriptors, and perhaps also attempt to use machine learning to derive suitable texture descriptors for an image set.
Prerequisites: Python programming. Matlab and C programming is a plus.

Contact: Vebjorn Ljosa (ljosa@broad.mit.edu) http://www.broad.mit.edu/imaging/ http://cellprofiler.org/

Project Title: NEURON SEGMENTATION

Project Description: Neurons are notoriously difficult to identify and segment in microscopy images because of their complex shape. You will study a number of segmentation methods proposed in the literature, implement them in CellProfiler, assess how well they work, and propose improvements.
Prerequisites: Knowledge of image processing/analysis, linear algebra, Python programming

Contact: Vebjorn Ljosa (ljosa@broad.mit.edu) http://www.broad.mit.edu/imaging/ http://cellprofiler.org/

Project Title: CELL SEGMENTATION

Project Description: Much of the analysis of large-scale microscopy experiments depends on robust and accurate segmentation of cells in images. You will modify the segmentation algorithms in CellProfiler to make them more robust to cell clumping, low cell density, background variations, and skew in intensity distributions. You will then validate your improvements on a variety of image sets.
Prerequisites: Python programming

Contact: Vebjorn Ljosa (ljosa@broad.mit.edu) http://www.broad.mit.edu/imaging/http://cellprofiler.org/

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Chemical Engineering
Faculty Supervisor: William H. Green

Project Title: Combustion Dynamics Laboratory UROP

Project Description: The Combustion Dynamics Laboratory (CDL) studies the kinetics and dynamics of important combustion reactions using a laser flash photolysis spectrometer. Opportunities for the UROP include working directly with a graduate student mentor on crucial experiments, learning about laser spectroscopy, and potentially helping the group install a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. A positive attitude and a willingness to learn new things are a must. The position is for the duration of the summer with the possibility of continuation into future semesters.

Prerequisites: Chemical engineering or chemistry student. Completion of the following classes is preferred: chemical kinetics, basic laboratory classes, physical chemistry.

Contact: Joshua Middaugh, Research Assistant, middaugh@mit.eduhttp://web.mit.edu/huz/www/index2.htm

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Chemical Engineering
Faculty Supervisor: Paula T. Hammond

Project Title: Layer-by-Layer Assembled Polymer Electrolytes for Solar Cell Applications

Project Description: The global need for alternative energy is ever increasing and electrochemical devices such as batteries, fuel cells, and dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer very promising and sustainable solutions. A crucial component of these devices is an electrolyte (liquid, gel, or polymer), which facilitates energy conversion and storage through charge transport. DSSCs traditionally use liquid electrolytes, which prohibit widespread use of these devices due to manufacturing difficulties and device longevity concerns. Layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly is a versatile processing method that allows for the creation of blends from water-soluble polymers to obtain desired properties in the resulting polymer thin films. In the Hammond Lab, we have recently developed highly conductive polymer electrolytes and highly porous electrode networks using this environmentally benign LbL method. This summer research project involves the first-ever incorporation of fully LbL assembled photovoltaic electrodes and solid-state electrolytes to obtain highly efficient, leak-free solar cells. By tuning the film assembly conditions, ionically conductive multilayers, as well as high surface area titania networks, will be formed with high mobility while maintaining mechanical strength. Engineering the electrode/electrolyte interfaces will be crucial to obtain a compatible system and to minimize performance losses associated with electrolyte resistance. Finally, the optimized multilayer electrodes and electrolytes will be co-assembled with light-absorbing organic dyes to be tested in a DSSC platform. Solar conversion efficiency and power output values will be determined using a state-of-the-art solar cell characterization setup.

Contact: Dr. Avni Argun, Postdocoral Associate, argun@mit.edu (primary advisor) Becky Ladewski, ChemE graduate student, ladewski@mit.edu (co-advisor) Prof. Paula Hammond, hammond@mit.edu (Faculty Supervisor), http://web.mit.edu/hammond/lab/

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Alex "Sandy" Pentland

Project Title: Behavioral Feedback Systems

Project Description: The Human Dynamics group is looking for UROPs interested in developing feedback systems based on sensor data collected by our(http://hd.media.mit.edu/badges/) Sociometric badge sensing platform as well as Facebook, e-mail, and IM data. By using previous research on what communication and speech patterns are effective, we will work to build a web-based feedback system that will be deployed on a large scale in real organizations. The goal of the project is to see if we can influence behavior as well as productivity, job satisfaction, etc.

Prerequisites: Experience developing web applications or desire to learn Desired Skills (any of the following): Flash, PHP, MySQL, HTML, Java, Javascript, Facebook application programming, management coursework

Contact: Please e-mail your resume and a short description of your interests to Ben Waber at bwaber@media.mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: ESD/SEAri
Faculty Supervisor: Donna Rhodes

Project Title: Tradespace Exploration Laboratory Innovations for Systems Design and Evaluation

Project Description: The design and development of large engineering systems depends upon good decisions in the conceptual design phase. New methods for exploration of design tradespaces are critically important, but present challenges in several areas. First, the methods involve large and complex data sets of system design and performance, which must be mined in order to discover important relationships among the variables. Second, the multi-dimensional information generated in a tradespace exploration effort needs to be structured in such a way that salient and essential information is effectively presented for decision making. A summer project will be conducted to develop approaches and mechanisms for a new tradespace exploration laboratory. Novel approaches in the use of the tradespace exploration laboratory hardware and software for multi-sensory data representation and exploration will be developed and implemented. An example for tactile-visual exploration invol!
ves the development of a novel interface for data interaction based on using multiple Nintendo Wii remotes.

Prerequisites: Knowledge of Matlab and Microsoft Office, at least one programming language (C, java, etc.) and familiarity in programming with Bluetooth (preferred). Commitment to the work, good analytic, and written and oral communication skills are needed to participate in collaborative research. Interest in working with a mixed research staff, graduate student, and undergraduate student team as part of larger modeling and simulation effort. There are openings for two UROPS in this summer project. Rising juniors or seniors preferred. Pay will be based on candidate's skill set.

Contact: Please send a resume to Dr. Adam M. Ross, adamross@mit.edu, and visit the SEAri website for lab information: seari.mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: ESD/SEAri
Faculty Supervisor: Donna Rhodes

Project Title: Space System/UAV Modeling and Simulation for Responsive Systems Design and Evaluation

Project Description: The design and development of large space systems often take decades to complete, with technology already dated by launch and outdated by end of life. Changes in technology, mission, and environment all impact the perceived usefulness of a space system after launch. The industry needs a new method for designing systems that are flexible to these changes. A new method has been developed in this research group for analyzing a large number of system designs across a large number of possible future scenarios. Models and simulations of mixed space and UAV systems evaluate thousands of candidate space system designs in hundreds of possible contexts, and dynamic algorithms determine best evolution strategies for changing systems over time. Initial implementation has involved lower fidelity models. This research project involves using industry grade software to upgrade and modify existing models in order to develop a set of higher fidelity space system and UAV models, for running analysis and simulation in a tradespace visualization environment.

Prerequisites: Knowledge of Matlab and Microsoft Office, and basic satellite, UAV, and space system design. Interest and ability to learn to use industry grade software. Commitment to the work, good analytic, and written and oral communication skills are needed to participate in collaborative research. Interest in working with a mixed research staff, graduate student, and undergraduate student team as part of larger modeling and simulation effort. There are openings for two UROPS for this summer project. Rising juniors or seniors in Course 16 with UAV and space system interests preferred. Pay will be based on candidate?s skill set.

Contact: Please send a resume to Dr. Adam M. Ross, adamross@mit.edu, and visit the SEAri website for lab information: seari.mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST
Faculty Supervisor: Elazer Edelman

Project Title: Cancer and Uremia

Project Description: I am Vipul Chitalia, MD, PhD, a nephrologist and kidney transplant physician looking for a self-motivated UROP to work in areas related to molecular cell biology, cancer research and cardiology. The UROP would not only have hands-on experience on several molecular biology techniques, but also would have insight into translational research involving samples from human patients. This project will be an excellent opportunity for undergraduates interested to become physicians and/or physician scientists. A lot of prospective medical students already work in our laboratory. The objective of my research is to examine the role of Wnt signaling in two different areas, cancer and uremia-induced vascular disease. 1. In cancer arena, my previous work has focused on kidney cancer and gave rise to several publications in prestigious journals such as Nature: Cell biology. This work was published as 'Jade-1 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase of beta catenin and mediates pVHL regulation of Wnt signaling'. The present work is an extension of the same. 2. In vascular biology arena, I am looking in vascular pathobiology in patients with kidney failure on dialysis. In particular, I am using cutting-edge proteomics techniques to discern the molecular pathways of uremia (kidney failure)-induced vascular diseases. Overall, I believe in bedside-to-bench-to-bedside philosophy of translational research.

Prerequisites: Self motivation sciences or engineering major biology background

Contact: Pl feel free to page me at 617-638-5795 # 2817 or email me at vichital@mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: EAPS
Faculty Supervisor: Clark Burchfiel

Project Title: Geology of the Clark Mountains, western United States

Project Description: This project aims to create a color digital geologic map of the Clark Mountains, CA, from several previously drafted maps. The maps are in several large sheets, the two larges are ~4 feet long and ~2 feet wide. The digital version will form the basis for a major geological report on the area. The main responsibility of the UROP will be to use Geographical Information System (GIS) software to scan and digitize a series of geological maps. The project may also entail some programming to automate these processes so that they can be easily replicated (e.g., Visual Basic). Depending on the student's interests, the work can be expanded to include other aspects of the project, including making a plate of geological digital cross sections of the area from previously drafted work.

Prerequisites: A familiarity with programming (especially Visual Basic) or GIS is a plus, but all that is required is an interest and willingness to learn to use these tools. An interest in geology is also a plus. Please enclose your CV and a brief description of your interest in the project and relevant background.

Contact: Clark Burchfiel, bcburch@mit.edu

4/17/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: LEES
Faculty Supervisor: Steven Leeb

Project Title: A Waste Heat Harvesting Thermo-Fluid Appliance Concept and Other Energy Conservation Innovations

We are looking for a mechanical engineering UROP to help in the details, fabrication, and instrumentation two different projects in our lab for the summer. The first is a novel waste heat harvesting heat pump water heater
concept: The potential to drastically reduce the energy consumption at the consumer end by taking advantage of waste thermal energy that has traditionally been discarded represents one of the relatively untapped and unexplored fronts to solving our current environmental and energy problems. The other project for the UROP will be to help design and prototyping electrode array mounts for a fluorescent lamp: We've been developing a new fluorescent lamp that can automatically detect people and auto-dim when a space is empty. The lamp
determines the presence of people by detecting changes in the electric fields that people cause around the lamps.

Prerequisites: Good candidates will have taken the 2.005 and 2.006 thermo-fluid series, be interested and resourceful in mechanical fabrication techniques, especially sheet metal work, and have taken 2.008 and be familiar with the mold making and injection molding process.

Contact: Chris Schantz, cschantz@mit.edu

4/13/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Sloan-Finance
Faculty Supervisor: Serdar Dinc

Project Title: Corporate Characteristics, Lobbying, and Campaign Contributions in the U.S.

Project Description: We are studying the role of corporate characteristics on the lobbying and campaign contributions by corporations in the U.S. with the particular focus on recent crisis period. The necessary tasks by the UROP student is focused on managing the data obtained from Federal filings. The data come relatively clean but corporations may try to channel their political activities through multiple subsidiaries to avoid detection. The main task will be to match subsidiaries to parents using business data sources. Once the lobbying and campaign contributions data are ready, we will match those data to corporate finance databases for analysis.

Prerequisites: Strong interest in political issues and the democratic process is the only requirement. Familiarity with data base management software is a plus. The successful student may also be involved with the analysis depending on her/his statistics/econometrics background.

Contact: Serdar Dinc, dinc@mit.edu

4/13/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Ramesh Raskar

Various Projects listed below:

Project Title: High Speed 3D Tomography Machine

Project Description: We are looking for a student for a project building the next generation of CAT-scan machines. We are building a portable machine to perform optical tomography at high speed. Such machines can compute 3D representation of scanned parts (such as blood flow in wrists or muscle activity) in real time allowing detailed analysis of higher-level human activity. The goal is to build, perform mathematical simulation and analyze reconstructed 3D volumes.

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: Experience with circuit board design and electronics, PIC programming. Experience or interest in signal processing. Programming in Matlab and C++.

Project Title: Optical Motion Capture and Actuated Feedback

Project Description: We are looking for a student for a project that spans topics in electronics and bio-interface. We are building a wearable fabric to support millimeter accurate location and bio-parameter tracking at thousands of points on the body. Such a fabric can compute and predict 3D representations of human activity and use them for a closed-loop control to augment human performance. The goal is to support a detailed analysis and control of higher-level human activity. The basic technology uses a new optical motion capture method we have recently developed.

Prerequisites: Experience with circuit board design and electronics (especially photosensors and emitters), as well as PIC programming. Related Video: http://web.media.mit.edu/~raskar/prakash/

Project Title: Computational Photography (optics and image processing)

Project Description: The 'Camera Culture' group has two openings for Computational Photography projects. Computational photography combines plentiful computing, digital sensors, modern optics, actuators, and smart lights to escape the limitations of traditional film cameras and enables novel imaging applications. Unbounded dynamic range, variable focus, resolution, and depth of field, hints about shape, reflectance, and lighting, and new interactive forms of photos that are partly snapshots and partly videos are just some of the new applications found in Computational Photography. We are building new types of cameras and building algorithms for processing the captured images. (More info http://raskar.info/photo/ )

Prerequisites: Experience with image processing or optics. Experience or interest in signal processing. Programming in Matlab and C++.

Project Title: Femtosecond Imaging Analysis of Light Transport

Project Description: Taking pictures at the speed of light. Our goal is to combine theoretical analysis with femto- pico-second laser imaging to model light flow. These techniques can lead to a new source of computational visual perception. We have developed the theoretical foundation for sensing and reasoning using transient light transport. We are now experimenting with scenarios in which transient reasoning exposes scene properties that are well beyond the reach of traditional machine vision.

Prerequisites: Creative thinking and Motivation to experiment with Femtosecond lasers and state-of-the art optoelectronics. Helpful skills: Prior experience and working knowledge of hardware optics

Contact: Contact: Prof. Ramesh Raskar, raskar@media.mit.edu http://web.media.mit.edu/~raskar/ , http://cameraculture.info/

4/13/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Rosalind Picard

Project Title: Developing Technologies for Children with Autism

Project Description: Social-emotional communication difficulties lie at the core of autism spectrum disorders, making interpersonal interactions overwhelming, frustrating, and stressful. We are developing technologies that build on the nonverbal communication that individuals are already using to express themselves and providing means to learn these complex social cues.
Prerequisites: Looking for self-motivated programmer to assist in the development of assistive and learning technologies for children with autism. Person should be familiar with Mac/Linux and have experience programing. Desired skills:

1) Experience with any combination of languages, Java/PHP/Python/Actionscript
2) Experience working at the command line.
3) Experience or interest working with server technologies, MySql/Apache etc.
4) Self directed and ability to solve problems The more experience the better, but also willing to teach those interested in learning.

Contact: micahrye@mit.edu, http://affect.media.mit.edu/

4/13/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Speech Group, RLE, EECS
Faculty Supervisor: Stefanie Shattuck-Hufnagel

Various Projects listed below:

Project Title: The prosody of backwards speech

Project Description: Interested in the acoustics of spoken language, the prosody of spoken utterances (i.e. intonation and timing), and the cognitive representations that underlie speech production? Summer UROP opportunity to learn a coding system for intonation, and apply it to the intriguing phenomenon of backward speech. Envisioned as a part-time position (20 hours per week), at $10-20 per hour depending on skills and experience. Contact Stefanie Shattuck-Hufnagel (stef@speech.mit.edu) or Donca Steriade (steriade@mit.edu)

Project Title: The prosody of child speech

Project Description: Adult speakers convey meaning in part by the words and sentence structure of their spoken utterances, but also by the prosody, e.g. intonation and timing patterns. In this UROP you will learn to transcribe prosody and then apply this knowledge to an existing corpus of child speech, to test hypotheses about prosodic development.

Project Title: The acoustics of child speech

Project Description: Child speech is often studied using transcriptions made by adult listeners. These transcriptions are very useful, but they miss a great deal of acoustic detail that is important for understanding how speech development happens. For example, a child may distinguish two words or sounds in a way that is different from adults, so that an adult listener does not hear the distinction and doesn't realize that the child is making the contrast. In this UROP you will learn about the acoustics, articulation, phonetics and phonology of spoken utterances, and use this knowledge to label an existing database of child speech. The resulting data will be used to test hypotheses about the nature of speech and language development.

Project Title: Speech and gestures

Project Description: Speakers often move various parts of their bodies when they talk, e.g. their hands, heads, eyebrows etc. Current models of speech production planning do not account for these additional aspects of the communicative process. This UROP project involves learning to label these speech accompanying gestures in video clips of lectures, label the acoustics of the speech, and use the resulting data to test hypotheses about the timing relationships between these two information streams.

Project Title: Tongue twisters and finger fumblers

Project Description: Speech errors (like 'dretter swying' for 'sweater drying') reveal the complexity of speech production, and a better understanding of what makes a sequence of words or syllables hard to say would be useful in constructing models of the speech production planning process. In this UROP you will learn to design speech experiments to test the effectiveness of various tongue-twister-like sequences for eliciting errors, e.g. top cop, top cop, top cop, vs. top cop top, cop top cop. Experiments may also include parallel sequences of finger tapping movements, to evaluate the degree to which alternation patterns that elicit errors are a general characteristic of motor planning for movement sequences that are both serially and hierarchically organized

Prerequisites: Some exposure to signal processing, phonetics/phonology or psycholinguistics would be a plus, as would musical training, but these are not required;

Contact: stef@speech.mit.edu

4/13/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Rosalind Picard

Project Title: ISET

Project Description: Looking for self-motivated person to be involved in the continued development of research projects. The research projects involve the development of assistive and learning technologies for autistic individuals. Looking for:

1) Experience with Mac/Linux
2) Java knowledge
3) PHP/Actionscript a plus
4) Experience with shell commands a plus
5) Self-motivated and ready to learn a must

Contact: micahrye@mit.edu

4/13/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Center for Transportation and Logistics / AgeLab
Faculty Supervisor: Bryan Reimer

Project Title: NAV Studio: Use of eye tracking and physiology to determine user state

Project Description: The MIT AgeLab seeks a number of UROPs who are interested in working on a developing project investigating how people respond to different visual stimulus. The AgeLab has a number of publications regarding eye tracking in the automotive environment and is eager to apply their knowledge to other fields. The Lab?s NAV Studio currently has hardware setup to perform eye tracking along with the recording of physiological measures such as heart rate, respiration and skin conductance levels. UROPs will take an active part in designing experiments, recruiting subjects, collecting data while running subjects and finally the editing and analysis of data. The ideal candidates will have strong oral communication skills and interest in human factors research. Interests in topics such as video recording/image processing, physiological measurements, database management, and working with experimental subjects are a plus. This position is unique in that it UROPs will have the potential to work alongside researchers from a wide variety of fields including, but not limited to human factors, sports psychology, psychophysiology and biomedical engineering. In addition, UROPs will be exposed to a variety of other projects currently in the AgeLab and have the potential to apply their knowledge and background to these diverse areas. If successful, it is likely that the UROPs will be invited to continue working on the project in the fall semester.

Prerequisites: No prerequisites are required, but dependability and a positive attitude are a must. Strong organizational skills are desirable.

Contact: Interested students are encouraged to send a resume and a brief paragraph of interest to Jarrod Orszulak, Research Engineer, MIT AgeLab: email. jorszulak@mit.edu tel. (617) 253-3506

4/13/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Center for Transportation and Logistics / AgeLab
Faculty Supervisor: Bryan Reimer

Project Title: Monitoring physiological and attentional changes in driver behavior

Project Description: Project Description: The MIT AgeLab seeks a number of UROPs who are interested in working on a series of on-going projects focused on the collection and analysis of driving performance data. UROP students will assist AgeLab researchers in running experiments in the AgeLab driving simulator, Miss Daisy, and in the on-road instrumented vehicle, the Aware Car. UROPs will also have responsibility for tasks involving the manipulation and analysis of data such as physiological measurements, cognitive task responses and driving performance. The ideal candidates will have strong oral communication skills and interest in human factors research. Interests in topics such as video recording/image processing, onboard vehicle systems, physiological measurements, database management, and working with experimental subjects are a plus. This position is unique in that it UROPs will have the potential to work alongside researchers from a wide variety of fields including, but not limited to human factors, sports psychology, psychophysiology and biomedical engineering.

Prerequisites: No prerequisites are required, but dependability and a positive attitude are a must. Strong organizational skills are desirable.

Contact: Interested students are encouraged to send a resume and a brief paragraph of interest to Jarrod Orszulak, Research Engineer, MIT AgeLab: email. jorszulak@mit.edu tel. (617) 253-3506.

4/10/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Dept. of Biology/Broad Institute
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Lander

Various Projects listed below.

Project Title: Illumination correction

Project Description: For high-throughput microscopy experiments, it is critical to characterize and correct for systematic variations of light intensity within the field of view. Debris and other artifacts in the images can impair the illumination correction effort. You will apply machine learning and design custom algorithms to identify artifacts in images robustly. You will test your methods on a catalog of artifacts that you collect from actual high-throughput experiments. You may also improve CellProfiler's approach to illumination correction by fitting a smooth function, such as a spline surface, to the intensities of images.
Prerequisites: Python programming

Project Title: Cell segmentation

Project Description: Much of the analysis of large-scale microscopy experiments depends on robust and accurate segmentation of cells in images. You will modify the segmentation algorithms in CellProfiler to make them more robust to cell clumping, low cell density, background variations, and skew in intensity distributions. You will then validate your improvements on a variety of image sets.
Prerequisites: Python programming

Project Title: Neuron segmentation

Project Description: Neurons are notoriously difficult to identify and segment in microscopy images because of their complex shape. You will study a number of segmentation methods proposed in the literature, implement them in CellProfiler, assess how well they work, and propose improvements.
Prerequisites: knowledge of image processing/analysis, linear algebra, Python programming

Project Title: Scientific Python programming

Project Description: You will implement and test efficient algorithms for image segmentation, spatial filtering, and other performance-critical operations. When appropriate, you will prepare and contribute patches to SciPy and other upstream libraries. Your improvements will enable CellProfiler to analyze sets of hundreds of thousands of microscopy images from high-throughput experiments, such as genome-wide screens for cancer-related genes. Patches contributed to SciPy will benefit many areas of science.
Prerequisites: knowledge of algorithms, Python programming, C programming

Project Title: Scoring screens and assessing screenability

Project Description: Screens are large-scale experiments where cells are perturbed with thousands of different drugs or gene-inhibitory reagents, looking to find one or a few "hits," i.e., drugs or genes that influence a specific biological process. Because of the cost and effort of these large experiments, it is critical to assess the likelihood of finding hits, based on pilot experiments and statistical models. You will collect positive and negative control data from a number of existing screens. You will then test various models for selecting and assessing hits in the context of those screens.
Prerequisites: knowledge of statistics, Python programming

Project Title: Texture features

Project Description: Image textures are important for discerning cells with subtle phenotypes. You will apply a number of texture descriptors to images from actual high-throughput experiments and determine the optimal scales. You will assess the performance of rotation-invariant feature descriptors. Based on the results, you may propose alternate texture descriptors, and perhaps also attempt to use machine learning to derive suitable texture descriptors for an image set.
Prerequisites: Python programming. Matlab and C programming is a plus.

Contact: Vebjorn Ljosa (ljosa@broad.mit.edu) http://www.broad.mit.edu/imaging/, http://cellprofiler.org/

4/10/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Center for Transportation & Logistics
Faculty Supervisor: Professor Yossi Sheffi

Project Title: Sustainable Supply Chains

Project Description: The MIT-CTL is developing a comprehensive framework to evaluating sustainability in the context of supply chains. UROP students will concentrate in gathering public information from major corporations around the world and identifying sustainable practices. UROP students will also participate in discussions on future initiatives in the area.

Prerequisites: Interest in the subject.

Contact: Dr. Edgar Blanco, eblanco@mit.edu

4/10/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Center for Transportation & Logistics
Faculty Supervisor: Professor Yossi Sheffi

Project Title: Latin-American Logistics Map

Project Description: The MIT-CTL, in partnership with the Center for Latin-American Logistics Innovation (CLI), will be developing a comprehensive map of logistics infrastructure for Latin-America (including technology and processes). Besides gathering information for specific countries, UROP students will interview regional organizations, and participate in defining and analyzing performance indicators for the region. Some international travel may be required.

Prerequisites: Knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese. Interest in the subject.

Contact: Dr. Edgar Blanco, eblanco@mit.edu

4/10/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center:HST
Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Martha L. Bulyk

Project Title: Discovery of Novel Transcriptional Regulatory Interactions

Transcription factors regulate gene expression through DNA binding sites in the noncoding portions of the genome. Characterization of the protein-DNA interactions is essential for developing an understanding of gene regulation, as well as a biophysical understanding of how proteins can interact with DNA. We are looking for an enthusiastic UROP student for Summer 2009 to assist in a project focused on examining the DNA binding specificities of transcription factors in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. For those interested in pursuing careers in biology, this position will provide exposure to genomics (including the use of DNA microarrays) as well as other molecular biology techniques.

This position is for full-time (40 hours per week) for at least 10 weeks over the Summer. There is the possibility of extending this project for credit (or submit proposal for funding via UROP) during subsequent academic years.

Prerequisites: Some biology coursework and prior laboratory experience in molecular biology (7.02 or the equivalent) is required. Commute time to the laboratory at the Harvard Medical School campus is ~12-15 minutes from MIT by bus.

Contact: Bulyk Lab website: http://the_brain.bwh.harvard.edu/. For more information about this UROP position, contact: Prof. Martha L. Bulyk (mlbulyk@receptor.med.harvard.edu). If interested, please send a CV listing your relevant coursework, GPA and research experience, and a cover letter stating your interests and background.

4/7/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Center For Digital business
Faculty Supervisor: Erik Brynjolfsson

Project Title: Information Diffusion and Economic Trends

Project Description: This project involves understanding how information is disseminated through the internet and how this process mediates the current and future economic trends and activities. Specifically, we examine user behaviors online through mining search patterns in different parts of the world. We are looking for a student to work on this immediately and through the summer.

Prerequisites: Basic programming experience in Perl. Having statistic background is useful. Must be motivated, and meticulous.

Contact: lynnwu@mit.edu

4/7/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Lifelong Kindergarten Group/Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Mitchel Resnick

Project Title: Online Learning Community for Youth

Project Description: We are building an online community where youth from under-served communities in 21 countries collaborate, learn and share their ideas. We are researching ways to engage the youth participants on the site in design activities rather than just socializing. The Lifelong Kindergarten group is looking for one or two UROPs to design and implement more engaging ways to share projects of different media types (audio, video, animation) online, and to develop online collaborative design tools. More information about the communities served by the site can be found at the Computer Clubhouse Network (http://www.computerclubhouse.org/)

Prerequisites: Strong programming skills, Ruby on Rails (RoR) or other object-oriented web programming (e.g, PHP), MySQL, AJAX, HTML, CSS

Contact: If you are interested email Christine Garrity (chrisg@media.mit.edu) with a resume or summary of your relevant experience.

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Chemistry
Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Stephen J. Lippard

Project Title: Development of platinum anticancer drus candidates

Project Description: The ability of cisplatin, to inhibit the growth of cancer cells by interfering with transcription and other DNA-mediated cellular functions has been elucidated over the past 40 years. It is highly effective against several forms of cancer, most notably testicular tumors where the cure rate is greater than 90%. Despite its success in treatment of these malignancies, the drug is limited in its use because of side effects and resistance acquired by cancer cells. It has recently come of interest to use platinum(IV) complexes based upon clinically known platinum(II) anticancer drugs as prodrugs. Platinum(IV) complexes are more substititionally inert. The activity of tetravalent platinum complexes is generally ascribed to their in vivo reduction with concomitant loss of their axial ligands, to leave a platinum(II) center that more readily binds to DNA. As a result, the axial ligands are ideal for altering such properties as lipophilicity, reduction potential, stability and biological targeting without changing the activity of the reduced, biologically active complex. In the current project, we are interested in the synthesis and biological studies of platinum(IV) complexes for use as anticancer prodrugs. Their activity in vitro will depend upon the ability of these prodrugs to be efficiently delivered and reduced only after they reach their desired target. As delivery system, single walled carbon nanotube, polymeric nanoparticles, and gold nanoparticles will be used.

Contact: shanta@mit.edu

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Environmental Microfluidics Group
Faculty Supervisor: Roman Stocker

Project Title: Development of the Videogame 'Virtual Microbe'

Project Description: We are developing an educational videogame for children (Virtual Microbe) that illustrates the fundamental microbial processes occurring in the ocean. We are looking for UROPs to work alongside graduate students and professional game developers at the MIT Comparative Media Studies (CMS) Education Arcade. Two fulltime positions are available for Summer 2009.

Prerequisites: Experience in programming required. Flash/Action Script experience preferred, Java programming also useful. Experience with GUI design or 2D graphics a plus.

Contact: Contact Prof. Roman Stocker (romans@mit.edu). Please send your resume and availability over the summer.

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Sloan School
Faculty Supervisor: Scott Keating

Project Title: Study of Operating Segments Reporting by US Companies

Project Description: US firms are required to provide information to investors about their operating segments, or business units. This information provides uniques insights into how firms are organized. This project will involve collecting firms' reported segment information and organizing it into machine-readable form for further analysis. In the process, you will have the opportunity to learn about the internal organization of many of the world's largest companies. This project is scheduled for this summer, but may extend into the Fall semester.

Prerequisites: Although not required, completion of 15.501 (Corporate Financial Reporting) will be beneficial.

Contact: Please contact Prof. Scott Keating at 617-258-8947.

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: EAPS
Faculty Supervisor: Shuhei Ono

Project Title: Sulfur mass-independent isotope effects and the early atmosphere

Project Description: Some gas phase reactions are known to cause anomalous isotope effects that we can use to trace sources and sinks of atmospheric sulfur gases. The goal of the project is to experimentally calibrate sulfur (and carbon) isotope effects during photolysis of various sulfur gas compounds (carbonyl sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, and sulfur dioxide) to obtain a first order observation about the cause and systematics of anomalous isotope effects. This knowledge will be applied to better constrain atmospheric sulfur cycles at present and in the past, in particular, to elucidate the origin of the sulfur mass-independent isotope effects that are exclusively found in rocks deposited prior to 2.4 billion years ago. This job will involve operation of vacuum manifolds, wet chemistry, and isotope ratio analysis by an electron impact gas-source isotope ratio mass-spectrometer. Experience in basic wet chemistry is required. We seek someone for the summer but could start part time during the remainder of the spring semester.

Prerequisites: Experience in wet chemistry.

Contact: sono@mit.edu; http://eaps.mit.edu/ono/

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: CECI
Faculty Supervisor: Jud Harward

Project Title: iLab UROP

Project Description: The Center for Educational Computing Initiatives is looking for a UROP to work on the iLab project. iLabs are real laboratories accessed through the Internet. Interested in running experiments on the MIT research reactor or exploring magnetic field lines of a dipole? UROP duties will include experiment construction, testing and development of new features such as automated lighting for experiments using X10 technologies, and documentation reviews. Duties will also include basic windows system management (windows XP and Server) including configuration of systems, installation of new hardware and system upgrades. A basic knowledge of windows management and programming (java or .Net) required. LabView knowledge is a plus.

Prerequisites: The ideal candidate will be a motivated, self- starter with effective time management skills, excellent documentation & communications skills and the ability to work independently. Must have enthusiasm and a willingness to be part of a team that works in a flexible and dynamic environment.

Contact: Please contact Kirky DeLong (kirky@mit.edu) 617-253-8651

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/lab/center: MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center
Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Chiping Chen

UROP Project Title: High-Brightness Charged-Particle Beam Research

Description: There are immediate and summer openings for UROP in the research area of high-brightness charged-particle beams at Plasma Science and Fusion Center. Anticipated research includes - but will not be limited to – a) theoretical and simulation studies of thermal properties of charged-particle beams, b) studies of linear and nonlinear wave excitations on charged-particle beams, and c) studies of interactions of
charged-particle beams with radio-frequency cavities.

Students in Physics, EECS, ME, NSE are encouraged to contact with and send resume to Dr. Chiping Chen, Tel: 617-253-8506; Email: chenc@psfc.mit.edu; Office: NW16-160.

4/6/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Environmental Microfluidics Group
Faculty Supervisor: Roman Stocker

Project Title: Biofilm Formation Modeling

Project Description: Biofilms are formed when bacterial cells attach to surfaces and secrete sticky polymeric substances. Despite their ungainly description, biofilms play a crucial role in many chronic diseases, antibiotic resistance, biofouling, groundwater remediation, and wastewater treatment. We are currently developing a novel experiment of biofilm formation using cutting-edge microfluidic chips. We are looking for a UROP student with extensive programming experience to help develop a numerical model that simulates our experiments. You will have the opportunity to work alongside a highly motivated team on a project of importance to both the environment and human health. Flexible work hours and the opportunity to work on experimental aspects of the project will be provided. Position available Summer 2009.

Prerequisites: A strong background in Matlab programming. Course 6, 8, and 18 students are especially urged to apply.

Contact: Mack Durham (durham@mit.edu) Please send your resume and availability over the summer.

3/26/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Economics, Finance and Accounting
Faculty Supervisor: Robert S. Pindyck

Project Title: Uncertainty and Economic Policy

Project Description: I am looking for one or two students to help me with several projects I am working on. One project involves climate change policy, and in particular the characterization of uncertainty and its implications for policy design. A second project models the effects of different kinds of risk on entry and exit decisions, market evolution, and market power. A third project examines welfare and policy implications of low-probability global catastrophes. Depending on the project, the work will involve the development of MATLAB programs to solve and simulate the various models, data gathering, and statistical analysis.

Prerequisites: Candidates for this position should have both of the following: (1) a strong background in economics (especially microeconomics) and statistics; and (2) substantial programming experience with MATLAB. They should also be able to work independently. The work can begin as early as mid-May.

Contact: Professor Robert Pindyck, Room E52-453, Sloan School of Management, rpindyck@mit.edu

3/23/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: CSAIL
Faculty Supervisor: CSAIL Faculty

Want to work on cool projects, have fun and get paid?

Please come to our Informational Meeting on Tuesday, April 7 to hear faculty, researchers and grad students present on exciting research happenings at CSAIL, and how you can be a part of them!

What: Summer UROP Opportunities at the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL)
When: Tuesday, April 7, 3:30-5:00 PM
Where: Stata Center Patil Conference Room (32-G449)

*Cookies and refreshments will be served*

**If you are unable to attend, but are still interested in the program, please send an email to merriman@csail.mit.edu

3/16/09
Spring/Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: EAPS
Faculty Supervisor: Samuel Bowring

Project Title: Thermal history of the continents

Project Description: This project involves using samples of rocks formed at the base of the continental crust (400-800 C and 35-40 km depth) to understand how continental crust evolves and matures on billion year time scales. Our approach is to use U-Pb geochronology and thermochronology to study temperature-time history of lower crustal rocks using minerals with different diffusion kinetics for Pb produced by radioactive decay. In doing so we can explore cooling histories from >800 C to <400 C. This job will involve everything from separating accessory minerals from rocks to ultra-clean chemistry-to finite-element diffusion/thermal modeling. We seek someone for the summer but would also take the right candidate part time during the remainder of the Spring semester.

Prerequisites: EAPS major preferable but will consider anyone with an interest in the subject matter.

Contact: sbowring@mit.edu

3/16/09
Summer 2009
UROP Department/Lab/Center: Building Technology Research Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Leon Glicksman

Project Title: User Friendly-Tool for Modeling Natural Ventilation in Buildings

Project Description: A great way of reducing energy consumption in buildings is by using natural ventilation, as opposed to air conditioning. The Building Technology (BT) Research Lab is developing a tool, CoolVent, which would help architects better understand and predict the effects of natural ventilation on thermal comfort inside a building. We are currently focusing on improving the interface of CoolVent, to make it more user-friendly and appealing to architects. So far, we have defined potential improvements for the look and feel of the interface, which we would like to implement this summer. We are looking for someone with programming skills who can help implement these changes and also offer suggestions on how to make the interface more dynamic and intuitive. Working in the BT lab is a great opportunity for someone who wants to apply his/her abilities to promoting a more sustainable society.

Prerequisites: Experience with C# or comparable programming language Past experience with interface design preferred but not required.

Contact: Phan Truong ptruong@mit.edu

3/16/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Media Lab
Faculty Supervisor: Tod Machover

Project Title: Auditory working memory training and short-term cognitive transfer

Project Description: Recently, researchers have proposed a short-term intensive training exercise incorporating working memory for multiple streams of information, one auditory and one visual. After approximately 19 days of training, robust transfer effects have been demonstrated for abstract reasoning and fluid intelligence. Authors claim that working at capacity during the training and the multisensory nature are potentially responsible for the transfer gains (despite how elusive transfer tends to be in these types of training environmnets). This UROP will conduct cognitive training experimentation to validate an auditory only task in a similar training-to-transfer paradigm. We will then explore applications to embed cognitive training stimuli into everyday environments.

Prerequisites: Experience running experiments with human subjects, background in music cognition

Contact: Adam Boulanger - adamb@media.mit.edu

3/16/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: MIT Center for Educational Computing Initiatives
Faculty Supervisor: Kimberle Koile

Project Title: Database Design and Implementation for Tablet-PC-based Classroom Interaction System

Project Description: Looking for a UROP student to help our group in development and deployment of tablet-pc-based software for use in K-12 science and math. The software being developed is an extension of Classroom Learning Partner (http://projects.csail.mit.edu/clp), with which an instructor displays slides on student tablet pcs and on a public display, and annotates slides with "digital ink"; students wirelessly submit digital ink answers to in-class exercises. UROP student's summer responsibilities will include design and implementation of a MySQL database to store student submissions. Possibility of continuing with fall UROP, with responsibilities that will include helping with classroom deployments and implementation of new features.

Prerequisites: Familiarity with Windows and relational databases necessary; previous programming in C# and/or ability to learn new languages and protocols quickly a plus. Strong programming skills a plus.

Contact: Please respond to kkoile@mit.edu with subject line CLP UROP, and send a resume, description of your programming experience, and a brief statement about why the project is of interest to you and how your skills are relevant.

3/10/09
UROP Department/Lab/Center: HST/LMRT
Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Sangeeta Bhatia

Project Title: Stem cells and high-throughput strategies for
regenerative medicine

Project Description: The project aims to advance cell based therapy for liver disease. We use miscroscale technologies and high-throughput strategies to manipulate a variety of cell types, ranging from embryonic stem cells to mature hepatocytes. The student will be exposed to robotics and computational biology over at the Harvard-MIT Broad Institute. He/she will work closely with a graduate student on many aspects of the project but will mainly be responsible for maintaining & characterizing cell cultures and/or directing automated image analysis. Candidates should be interested in a multiscale approach to biology and those with some background in biology will be given preference.

Prerequisites: The candidate should be highly motivated and available to work ~12hrs/week in the spring semester and full time over the summer.

Contact: Meghan Shan (js8686@mit.edu) http://mit.edu/lmrt/

77 Massachusetts Avenue, Bldg. 7-104, Cambridge, MA 02139
Tel: 617-253-7306, Fax: 617-258-8816

Comments & Questions to: urop@mit.edu

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