Engineering Concentration Forum

Join junior and senior engineering concentrators and the Undergraduate Concentration Advisors for an event that will help you clarify your concentration goals. 

It will be a question and answer forum where you can get all your questions answered! 

April 8^th starting at 4pm on the Terrace adjacent to the Barus and Holley Lobby

Green’s Theorem (our Brown Engineering band consisting of our very own Janet Blume on drums, Christian Franck on guitar, Kipp Bradford on bass, and Shawn Kitchner on vocals) plans to play during the event.  

Cookies and drinks will be served.

Bring your questions and your enthusiasm for our engineering community!  

Nanoscale Fabrication & Characterization Workshops

Nanoscale Fabrication &

Characterization Workshops

March 22nd - April 3rd

Free Hands-On Training for New and Experienced Users

The Brown University Microelectronics and Electron Microscopy Facilities invite students and researchers from New England to join us for a Workshop Series.

For more details, please email: NanoWorkshops@brown.edu

Objectives: To introduce participants to a broad range of experimental tools available for nanoscience at Brown. To help users develop the requisite skills to design and optimize new processes for their own research.

Process-Based Format: Each one-day workshop will walk users through a complete process from start to finish.

Workshop Instructors: Eng. Michael Jibitsky, Eng. Anthony McCormick, Prof. Domenico Pacifici, and Prof. Rashid Zia

Seminar: “Nanomaterial exposure and environmental effects: predictive tools for assessing risk”

JOINT INSTITUTE FOR MOLECULAR AND NANOSCALE INNOVATION (IMNI) AND SUPERFUND RESEARCH PROGRAM AT BROWN UNIVERSITY
“Nanomaterial exposure and environmental effects: predictive tools for assessing risk”
DR. MARK WIESNER
Center for the Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology
(CEINT)
Duke University Email: wiesner@duke.edu
March 19, 2010 Barus & Holley, Room 190 10:00AM
Abstract
The Center for the Environmental Implications of NanoTechnology (CEINT) is engaged in research that seeks to elucidate relationships between properties of nanomaterials and their environmental behavior. This presentation provides an overview of activities in CEINT and illustrates the methodology being applied to a wide range of nanomaterials in developing a framework for nanomaterial risk assessment. In this presentation the examples of nano silver and C60 are used to illustrate how this collaborative research effort is organized. Nanomaterial transport and relative affinity of nano Ag for solid phases is discussed as well as possible transformations of nano Ag in the environment and the impacts that these transformations may have at the scale of cells, organisms and ecosystems. The role of aggregation in modifying nanoparticle reactivity is discussed in the context of the fullerene C60.
Host: Robert Hurt Administrative Contact: IMNI, IMNI@brown.edu, 863-1386

NetApp Summer Intern Program

NetApp is looking for Computer Science and Electrical Engineering students to be part of our engineering team designing and delivering industry leading storage solutions. NetApp's Summer Intern Program is a 3 month experience that will provide you an opportunity to gain in depth knowledge about NetApp's business and culture as you enjoy meeting with organizational leaders during lunch, network with your fellow intern colleagues at various social events, and present your hard work to NetApp executives and management.

A summer internship at NetApp is a great way for you to:
- Develop hands-on experience while completing your studies
- Learn from professional mentors
- Build a network of contacts in your field
- Find a company that is a perfect place for you to build your career

For more information about the available internships, locations, and to apply online, please visit: http://www.aftercollege.com/op/op.asp?id=4236&src=734701908&messageid=hfU2rsO9DdaDdDFB&campaignid=3oHmOibKX7Zjb0zD

Summer internships are available to students who are enrolled in a bachelor's or advanced degree program and who will be returning to school in the fall.

Come see for yourself why NetApp is not just a great place to develop your career, it's also an exciting place to work. EOE.
AfterCollege
http://www.aftercollege.com/

Seminar: “Nano-mechanical Characterization of Polypropylene and Nylon Fibers Exposed to Ultraviolet and Thermal Degradation”

BROWN UNIVERSITY
Joint Materials/Solid Mechanics Seminar Series

“Nano-mechanical Characterization of Polypropylene and Nylon Fibers Exposed to Ultraviolet and Thermal Degradation”

Prof. Vijay Chalivendra, co-Director for Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology
Department of Mechanical Engineering
University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth

Abstract:
Nanoindentation studies using atomic force microscopy (AFM) was conducted to investigate the effect of accelerated ultraviolet (UV) and thermal degradation on mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP) and nylon fibers. The effect of degradation on gradation of Young’s modulus values across fiber cross-section was investigated with progressive nanoindentation from the surface to the center of the fiber. For polypropylene, UV degradation initially increases the Young’s modulus values both at the center and at the surface of the fibers until 120 hours of exposure and the values are decreased at 144 hours of exposure. The Young’s modulus values at 144 hours of exposure were less than those of unexposed PP fibers. For nylon, UV degradation decreases the Young’s modulus values from center to surface of the fibers up to 144 hours of exposure. Reduction of Young’s modulus at surface was greater than the center implying more deterioration at the surface. Wide angle x-ray spectroscopy (WAXS) analysis provided the increase of crystallinity in PP fibers exposed up to 120 hours and total destruction of crystallinity at 144 hours. Infrared spectra showed the oxidation by formation of carbonyl bonds with UV exposure. For nylon, WAXS showed continuous destruction of crystallinity. To investigate the thermal degradation effect, the PP and nylon fibers were exposed to 125oC and 175oC respectively for four weeks. Polypropylene did not show much impact on variation of Young’s modulus values initially, but showed an increase near the surface after four weeks exposure. Nylon fiber showed decrease in Young’s modulus. The changes in Young’s modulus values in both PP and nylon for UV and thermal degradation are again attributed to the changes of crystallinity. Polypropylene fibers are treated with a reducing agent to mitigate the oxidation and further characterization is in progress to evaluate the effect of treatment on mechanical properties of treated fibers.

Monday, March 29, 2010 - 4:00-5:00 pm - B&H Room 190

Seminar: “Interfaces in and between Nanoparticles”

BROWN UNIVERSITY
Joint Materials/Solid Mechanics Seminar Series

“Interfaces in and between Nanoparticles”

Prof. C. Barry Carter
Head, Chemical, Materials & Biomolecular Engineering
General Secretary, the International Federation of Societies for Microscopy
Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Materials Science
University of Connecticut, 191 Auditorium Road, Storrs, CT 06269

Abstract:

Transmission Electron Microscopy is the essential tool for understanding nanoparticles. Only TEM can tell you about the structure and chemistry of specific nanoparticles and the local variations due to segregation or defects. Features such as interfaces within a nanoparticle, small facets on the surface, and local chances in chemistry, which may or may not involve local changes in structure, can each be examined with near atomic resolution. TEM can also bridge the length scale to more macroscopic features such as the distribution of nanoparticles: their clustering and alignment being particularly important. We can examine the surface coating of nanoparticles and other local changes in chemistry which we intentionally or accidentally induce. We can even examine how nanoparticles change in response to applied stimuli (in particular stress, heat, the electron beam or an applied voltage).

The present talk will consider some examples of TEM studies of nanoparticles, paying particular attention to how recent improvements in the instrumentation are improving the quality of the data that the TEM produces. Throughout the talk the emphasis will be on Ceramic Materials but illustrations of metals will be included (though mainly as they relate to Ceramic Materials). Other microscopies, namely SEM, AFM and VLM, will be used to complement the information obtained in the TEM. The textbooks on Transmission Electron Microscopy and Ceramic Materials will be mentioned frequently!

Monday, March 22, 2010 - 4:00-5:00 pm - B&H Room 190

University of Houston REU: "Innovations in Nanotechnology"

THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON AND THE NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Welcome - to the Cullen College of Engineering's Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site at the University of Houston: "Innovations in Nanotechnology".

The program is designed to infuse qualified undergraduates with enthusiasm toward both graduate level education and a career in research. Participants will make important contributions to the college's ongoing research efforts.
Tentative Program Dates: May 24- July 26, 2010
Stipend: $5000.00

www.egr.uh.edu/reu
Contact:
Fritz Claydon, Ph.D.
reu@egr.uh.edu

Students with residence from outside the Greater Houston area will receive a housing allowance in an on-campus university apartment and will receive a travel allowance to offset transportation costs.

Biomedical Engineering Opportunities with the Department of Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will be halting the acceptance of applications for their Biomedical Engineering Internship Positions as of Close of Business on Friday, March 19 Resumes received after this time will not considered for the TCF internshippositions, but may be kept on file for future positions.

We would like to encourage graduates interested in working for the VA to check the government website www.usajobs.com for open positions. Our agency frequently has openings located across the nation for Biomedical Engineers and we strongly encourage interested graduates to apply for these positions. Thank you for your help in distributing this opportunity to your students.

“Interfaces in and between Nanoparticles”

Joint Materials/Solid Mechanics Seminar Series

“Interfaces in and between Nanoparticles”

Prof. C. Barry Carter

Head, Chemical, Materials & Biomolecular Engineering

General Secretary, the International Federation of Societies for Microscopy

Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Materials Science

University of Connecticut, 191 Auditorium Road, Storrs, CT 06269

Abstract:

Transmission Electron Microscopy is the essential tool for understanding nanoparticles. Only TEM can tell you about the structure and chemistry of specific nanoparticles and the local variations due to segregation or defects. Features such as interfaces within a nanoparticle, small facets on the surface, and local chances in chemistry, which may or may not involve local changes in structure, can each be examined with near atomic resolution. TEM can also bridge the length scale to more macroscopic features such as the distribution of nanoparticles: their clustering and alignment being particularly important. We can examine the surface coating of nanoparticles and other local changes in chemistry which we intentionally or accidentally induce. We can even examine how nanoparticles change in response to applied stimuli (in particular stress, heat, the electron beam or an applied voltage).

The present talk will consider some examples of TEM studies of nanoparticles, paying particular attention to how recent improvements in the instrumentation are improving the quality of the data that the TEM produces. Throughout the talk the emphasis will be on Ceramic Materials but illustrations of metals will be included (though mainly as they relate to Ceramic Materials). Other microscopies, namely SEM, AFM and VLM, will be used to complement the information obtained in the TEM. The textbooks on Transmission Electron Microscopy and Ceramic Materials will be mentioned frequently!

Monday, March 22, 2010 - 4:00-5:00 pm - B&H Room 190

“Microfluidics for cell culture: Studies of cell populations and cell-cell interactions”

Joint Materials/Solid Mechanics Seminar Series

“Microfluidics for cell culture:  Studies of cell populations and cell-cell interactions”

Prof. Roger Kamm

Department of Mechanical Engineering

M.I.T.

Abstract:

Microfluidic systems have gained rapidly in popularity for use in cell culture.  They now provide the capability to control many of the critical biochemical and biophysical factors, allow for co-culture of multiple cell types, and can be imaged in real time at high resolution.  These capabilities have opened the door to studies not previously possible with an in vitro system.  For example, one can combine several different cell types and examine their interaction, and their response to time-dependent flows and delivery of growth factors.  In this talk, several examples will be presented drawn from the following: angiogenesis, axonal guidance, liver tissue engineering, tumor cell intravasation, and stem cell differentiation.

Short bio:

Roger Kamm is the Germeshausen Professor of Mechanical and Biological Engineering and former Associate Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at MIT. A primary objective of Kamm’s research group has been the application of fundamental concepts in fluid and solid mechanics to better understand essential biological and physiological phenomena.  Spanning a wide range, research in the Kamm lab has addressed issues in the respiratory, ocular and cardiovascular systems.  More recently, his attention has focused on two new areas, the molecular mechanisms of cellular force sensation, and the development of new scaffold materials and microfluidic technologies for vascularized engineered tissues. Kamm has a long-standing interest in biomechanics education, and has played key roles in developing both graduate and undergraduate bioengineering programs at MIT. He is the 2010 recipient of the Lissner Award from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and a Fellow of the American Institute for Biomedical Engineering, the Biomedical Engineering Society, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  He is the former chair of the US National Committee on Biomechanics, current chair of the World Council on Biomechanics, and Director of the Global Enterprise for Micro Mechanics and Molecular Medicine (GEM⁴). 

Monday, March 15, 2010 - 4:00-5:00 pm  - B&H Room 190

UC Berkeley Master of Financial Engineering Program

We will be holding an information session on the UC Berkeley Master of Financial Engineering Program next week.   Please kindly forward this message to any students who might be interested.  All are welcome. 

Discover how your degree in mathematics, physics, computer science, economics or engineering could lead to a career in quantitative finance. Come find out more about the Berkeley Master of Financial Engineering Program at our upcoming information session in NEW YORK.   

Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010

Location: The Michelangelo Hotel, 152 West 51^st Street, NYC

Time: 5:30-7:00 PM

Refreshments will be provided

You will meet with our executive director as well as recent graduates of the program. In addition, we can provide you with an on-site assessment of your background. Please bring copies of your resume and transcripts to the session for a quick onsite assessment. 

Please register here for the event.  RSVPs are not required, but are appreciated.  Students at all levels and graduates are welcome. 

We look forward to meeting you.

Regards,

Master of Financial Engineering Program

Haas School of Business

University of California at Berkeley

Berkeley, CA 94720-1900

Phone: (510) 642-4417

Fax: (510) 643-4345

http://mfe.haas.berkeley.edu

Careers in Patent Law for Scientists

Careers in Patent Law for Scientists: Using Science Expertise in the Legal Setting
With Max Colice ‘99
Wednesday, March 10
7:00 pm, Career Development Center
If you are a scientist looking for a career that is challenging and rewarding, take a look at patent law. Join Dr. Max Colice ’99, a Brown engineering concentrator, as he talks about the path that led him to a career that allows him to use his science in a legal setting. Dr. Colice will discuss opportunities in patent law, why scientists are sought after, and how they can use their training to make contributions at the intersection of law and science.

NeuroEngineering 1220 “Master Class” open to all

Brown University Division of Engineering,
Center for Biomedical Engineering,
Laboratory for Restorative Neurotechnology,
and Brown Institute for Brain Science

NeuroEngineering 1220 “Master Class”
Fundamentals of EEG, ECoG, and MEG

Sydney S. Cash, M.D., Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School
Epilepsy Service, Massachusetts General Hospital

As part of the Spring ‘10 NeuroEngineering 122 (ENGN 1220) course,
several visiting experts will introduce core neurotechnologies of
clinical relevance.

This series is directed toward the undergraduate and graduate
students enrolled in ENGN 1220, but we open this “master class” to
other students and researchers interested in Neuroengineering.

Tuesday and Thursday, March 9 and 11, 2010
1:00 – 2:20 pm
Barus & Holley Building (184 Hope St.)
Seminar Room 190

Host: Profs. Leigh Hochberg and Arto Nurmikko, Div. of Engineering, 863-2869
Administrative Contact: Sandra Van Wagoner, Div. of Engineering, 863-1415

The George E. Brown, Jr. Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation (NEES)

This is not your typical REU…

Are you interested in changing the world around you? Do earthquakes and tsunamis excite you?
Would you like to interact with large scale test equipment or sophisticated cyberinfrastructure?
You can spend the summer delving into leading-edge earthquake engineering experiments at
world-class facilities, while building connections with mentors and a national network of interns.

Apply online at
www.nees.org/education/resources/undergrad/