Currently there are 55 vacancies at PUCRS research laboratories, groups and centers
French Engineering students work at Virtual Reality Group, Neurophilosophy Research Group and Alternative Engines and Fuels Laboratory | Images: Mariana Haupenthal
International students looking for professional experience in their academic areas can now enjoy different opportunities at PUCRS’ laboratories, groups and research centers. The Research Opportunities Program has been attracting students from all over the world. Today, there are seats available in 55 laboratories, structures and research groups for both undergraduate and graduate students interested in having practicum work, under the direct supervision of the university’s faculty.
Engineering students from France Erick Rajaonarivony, Julien Virassamy and Othmane El Yousfi, from EI.CESI, arrived to PUCRS in June. They work in the Virtual Reality Group, the Neurophilosophy Research Group and in the Alternative Engines and Fuels Laboratory, respectively. In addition to them, two other international students are currently participating in the program.
Opportunities for internationalization
Rajaonarivony is learning about the development of new software and programming skills
Rajaonarivony, an undergraduate student, sees the program as an opportunity to find out more about the universe of virtual reality. It has also helped him learn about the development of new software and programming skills. “It has given me a chance to meet people, engage in networking activities and add a powerful line to my resume. International experiences open you up and make you ready for new experiences, ”he adds.
Julien Virassamy has chosen an area totally different from his area of expertise. As an Applied Systems Engineering major, he wanted to have an opportunity in Neurophilosophy to boost his career. “I chose this area because I intend to work with management, so I can better understand my team and organize my work,” he says. The way he sees it, international experiences bring a number of benefits, which include language learning and the development of adaptation skills.
Virassamy chose to have an opportunity in Neurophilosophy to boost his career
Graduate Opportunities
Yousfi applied for the opportunity as he was working on his Master’s degree. He claims that his first international experience is being marked by learning experiences and contact with new cultures. “This time I have spent in Brazil has allowed me to get out of the comfort zone and learn a lot, both in terms of language and everydya routine,” he says.
In the lab, Yousfi is looking at the behavior of biodiesel using conventional engines. “This is a very rich opportunity because there is a lot of hands-on work to do and we need to conduct a thorough study to better understand the impact of biodiesel on engine performance and its emissions,” the student adds.
Yousfi is looking at the behavior of biodiesel using conventional engines
About the program
The program is coordinated by the Office for International Cooperation and is intended to advance the internationalization of the campus and foster a multicultural environment in the different areas of the university. The opportunities are available for students in any academic areas, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The program is very flexible in terms of length and workload. Each opportunity will have their own description. To be eligible, students must be enrolled at one of PUCRS’ partner institutions.
Further information for international students interested in having professional practices in their research areas, can be found here. Registration is open all year long. The Academic Mobility team is available for further information: [email protected].
