Did You Know?

In the field of CS, the term "channels" is used by various computing scenarios to describe the sequence of commands executed by an Input/Output (I/O) channel subsystem. The name of our diversity initiative, "Channels Program", is a play on this terminology. Specifically, this engaging and supportive CSoI pathways program creates "Input Channels" of opportunity for underrepresented students interested in doing hands-on research related to the science of information. The "Output Channels" can be seen by our students' success in their academic endeavors and positions within industry.



Overview

The CSoI Channels Program aims to broaden the Science of Information community by providing a pathway or "channel" towards a wide range of opportunities for undergraduates, graduate students, post-docs, and faculty who are members of underrepresented groups. Specifically, the CSoI Channels Program targets underrepresented individuals interested in doing research within the disciplines related to the Science of Information. Besides being active in CSoI research, these awardees often participate in science outreach/education efforts to further promote diversity with STEM.

The Channels of Opportunity

CSoI Undergrad Channels Program Scholars: This competitive, paid academic year REU-style program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in a cohort-based research experience related to the Science of Information, especially as it concerns Information Theory. Awardees receive guidance from a mentor who is university faculty or a scientist within industry. Mentors are usually chosen by the student, but we can assist the applicant with finding a mentor based on their research interests. Students may reapply to the program each academic year. Awards typically average @ $4,200/yr, and awardees spend 12-15 hrs/week on their project during the Fall and Spring semesters while taking classes.

Applying to the CSoI Undergrad Channels Program:

Applications for the 2013-2014 Academic Year are now closed.

CSoI Graduate  Channels Program: Similar to theCSoI Undergrad Channel Scholars Program, the CSoI Graduate Channels Program will provide a supportive cohort environment for underrepresented graduate students pursuing research projects within the fields of Science of Information. These graduate students must be willing to serve as informal peer mentors to the undergraduate CSoI Channel Scholars. Funding types and amount vary through this initiative, so please contact the CSoI Diversity Director for more information (see below).

Channels Collaborations in Teaching and Research:   These activities bring female and other underrepresented postdocs & faculty to one of the Center's research universities in order to either prepare for teaching a Science of Information course at their respective institution the following year, or to learn more about the research of Center faculty for the purpose of future research collaborations. One of the possible unique features of these collaborations will be the formation of small groups of two or more faculty from the same institution or from institutions in geographic proximity, who could then collaborate not only with Center faculty, but with one another when they return to their home institutions. Please contact the CSoI Diveristy Director for more information.

Questions?

For more information about any of the CSoI Channels Program opportunities or other diversity initiatives within the Center, please contact:

Dr. Barbara A. Gibson
CSoI Director of Diversity
barbara@purdue.edu
765.496.6683