What is an IGERT?
The National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship (IGERT) program supports scientists and engineers pursuing doctorates in fields that cross academic disciplines and have broad societal impact. Rutgers currently has five active IGERT projects:
- Nanotechnology for Clean Energy
- Perceptual Science
- Nanopharmaceutical Engineering
- Stem Cell Science and Engineering
How to Apply for Rutgers IGERT Traineeships
IGERT projects include specific activities to ensure that students obtain substantial real-world experience through internships and develop a global perspective through international field trips and research exchanges. Visit the NSF IGERT website for additional resources and information about the IGERT program.
Current Funding Opportunities in Energy Solutions
In 2009, Rutgers received two NSF IGERT grants totaling more than $6.4 million to fund research in clean and sustainable energy resources. Over the next five years, renewable IGERT Traineeships are available to qualified U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are committed to pursuing energy-related studies in a broad array of graduate programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Non-U.S. citizens who are funded through other research programs may also be able to participate. For more information, contact the program coordinator of the IGERT program in which you are interested.
Nanotechnology for Clean Energy
The Nanotechnology for Clean Energy IGERT focuses on sustainable and affordable clean energy solutions with an emphasis on innovations in nanotechnology. Applications include photovoltaic materials and solar cells, hydrogen fuel cells, and batteries.
Cross-disciplinary research thrusts focus on nanomaterials synthesis, device fabrication, and energy systems. Fellows are admitted from graduate programs in electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering, as well as materials science and engineering, chemistry, and physics. The program includes students and faculty from both Rutgers and Princeton University. View information on training opportunities.
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Perceptual Science IGERT
The Perceptual Science IGERT combines the formal tools of computer modeling with the experimental and theoretical tools used in the study of human perception. Students are trained in experimental, analytical and computational approaches through its Interdisciplinary Core Curriculum, 
which includes foundational course work in both human perception and computer science, and novel interdisciplinary research.
Key research topics include:
- recognition of 3D shape, scenes and motion
- attention, search, and motor control
- multimodal communication
- computational depiction, human-computer interaction, and design
- models of learning in human and machine
The program is particularly suited to doctoral students in computer science, psychology, cognitive science or computer engineering, although students from related disciplines are also invited to apply. View information on training opportunities.
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Stem Cell Science and Engineering
Building on the success of the predecessor Biointerfaces IGERT, the IGERT on Science and Engineering of Stem Cells is actively seeking graduate students who are interested in cross-disciplinary research, education, and professional training related to stem cell technologies.
The first NSF-funded training program on stem cell biotechnology, the Rutgers IGERT ISESC draws from 
graduate programs in life, physical, and engineering sciences. The research is focused on integrative tools (systems biology, biomaterials, micro/nanotechnology, molecular biology, imaging) to elucidate and apply adult and embryonic stem cell processes to a variety of applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Trainees benefit from active mentoring from cross-disciplinary advisors, business and entrepreneurship courses, public policy roundtables, and global research internships.
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How to apply for Rutgers IGERT Traineeships
If you are interested in applying for funding through a Rutgers IGERT Traineeship:
- Submit your application for admission to a relevant graduate program at Rutgers.
- Indicate your interest in the IGERT program at the top of the text of your personal statement.
- Contact the IGERT program directly.
For the Nanotechnology for Clean Energy IGERT, click here.
For the Perceptual Science IGERT, click here.
For the Nanopharmaceutical Engineering IGERT, click here.
For the Stem Cell Science and Engineering IGERT, click here.
