Program Overview

Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars Program

The Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars Program is designed for exceptional graduate students who are interested in pursuing a career in research and innovation. This program provides students with the opportunity to work alongside top researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs to gain valuable experience that will set them up for a successful career in their chosen field.

About the Program

As a Mehta Rice Engineering Scholar, you'll have access to a wide range of resources, including:

• Opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• Mentorship and guidance from leading researchers and entrepreneurs
• Networking opportunities with other Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars and industry leaders

Outstanding students will be selected from the most prestigious institutions in India to come to the United States and spend five months at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Scholars will be hosted by a Rice Engineering Faculty based on research topic interest and the selection committee's recommendation. Scholars receive a monthly stipend of $2,500 for living expenses during their appointment.

Program Details

Upon completion of the program, participants will submit a short three-page report describing their experience and research accomplishments and cultural engagements at Rice, along with a personal note to our donor regarding your experience. Please include at least two images highlighting your visit with your report.

How to Apply

Students interested in applying should prepare a comprehensive application package, which includes a CV and a two-page research proposal. Additionally, they should identify 2-3 Rice School of Engineering and Computing faculty members whose research aligns with their interests. Obtaining a letter of recommendation from their faculty advisor in India is also required. Acceptance into the program is subject to the home institution covering the expenses for international travel.

Important Program Dates

• May 1: Call for applications
• July 8: Application deadline
• July 31: Applicant selection
• August 8: Applicant/host pairing deadline
• August 11: Award notifications
• August 18: Scholar acceptance deadline
• August 29: DS-2019 paperwork deadline
• September-December: Scholar visa, insurance, housing, and travel arrangements completed by visitor
• January 19, 2026: Start Date for New Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars begin work in host labs
• June 17, 2026: End Date for Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars complete work in host labs

Research Areas

While your degree may fall outside of engineering, your research proposal must be compatible with one of the following five areas:

• Quantum Science
• Advanced Materials
• Energy and Sustainability
• Data Science / Artificial Intelligence
• Bioengineering / Biological Sciences

Funding

Accepted scholars will receive a stipend of $2,500 per month to cover lodging, meals, and transportation needs. Once you arrive, this stipend is available for the duration (start/end date) included in your original appointment letter. Additionally, the associated SEVIS, visa, and Rice fees associated with securing the SEVIS/visa are reimbursable once you arrive. Rice-mandated insurance coverage for the duration (start/end date) of the initial appointment at a rate of up to $100 per month, and the processing fee (~$25 US) is also reimbursable.

Visa Application

Once you are selected for the program, a Rice program representative will contact you to initiate the visa process and secure the associated documents.

Program Duration

A short-term J-1 visiting scholar visa allows for up to 6 months. The program sets a specific start/end date each cycle. The Mehta Program administration team should be contacted by the faculty host for next steps if there is an offer made to the scholar beyond the set end date. Any extension should be initiated within the first week of the final month of the cycle.

Eligibility

All students are welcome to apply, including master's and PhD students. However, students should review their specific restrictions regarding J-1 visa duration and extensions before determining their length of stay.

Research Proposal

The student who is applying should come up with a research proposal. The research you'll engage in during your time in the MRESP will complement your current studies and research path, but cannot be expected as a continuation. Research focus/activities will be led by the Rice host faculty based on their current resources and funding.

Selection Process

Students are selected and paired with a Rice School of Engineering and Computing faculty host based on the application. There is no interview planned as part of the selection process.