Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars Program

Are you passionate about making a difference in the world? Do you have an interest in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship? If so, apply today for the Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars Program!

About the 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.

Program Details

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 four 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.

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.

Take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career in research and innovation.

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.

Click here to apply now.

Important Program Dates

• May 1: Call for applications
• July 8: Application deadline
• July 31: Applicant selection
• August 8: Applicant 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

What’s New: For this coming academic year 2025-2026, research periods will be January to June 2026, extending the annual program duration from 4 months to 5 months.

Contact Us

Have questions about the Mehta Rice Engineering Scholars Program? Email Jennifer Mashburn at jm9@rice.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the areas in which I can apply?

While your degree may fall outside of engineering, your research proposal must be compatible to one of the following five areas (think, research thrust areas):

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

If accepted, what funding is available from this program?

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 (as of 02/24) once you arrive. Note: Fees incurred through the use of health services are not reimbursed.

How do I apply for a visa?

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

How many months can I stay?

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.

Do I need to contact the faculty at Rice before mentioning him/her in the application as a potential host?

That is not necessary, but you are welcome to reach out and get prior approval from the faculty you are keen on working with. Only faculty with home departments falling within the School of Engineering and Computing are eligible to host.

Why is it mandatory for home institutions to cover flights to and from the U.S.?

Support by the applicant’s institution for flight expenses to and from the U.S. is a requirement of the applicant’s acceptance. This is an exchange program. Both institutions commit to the success of the scholar’s experience.

Can master's or PhD students apply for the program?

Yes. All are welcome to apply. We strongly advise reviewing your specific restrictions regarding J-1 visa duration and extensions before determining your length of stay, as you may be required to return to your home country for some time before accepting a longer J-1 appointment or accepting a position in the U.S. after you complete your studies. Resource: https://in.usembassy.gov/visas/.

Who should write the 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.

Will I be able to continue my research while at Rice?

The research you’ll engage in during 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.

Is my level/year a good time to apply?

Please discuss whether the current cycle of this program will fit in well with your planned studies and research with your home advisor before deciding whether to proceed. Rice cannot advise on whether the timing fits with your unique program of studies.

Is the start date mentioned on the website flexible?

No, the start and end dates are not flexible. However, your J1 visas may allow a wider arrival/departure window outside of the stated start/end date that will allow for personal exploration/settling into your temporary Houston, TX home base. Flights should be scheduled to ensure the scholar will be in Houston during the program duration and fall within your visa requirements/limits. Upon arrival, please contact the Office of International Scholars for check-in and next steps. You will not be able to start your research engagement until the start date.

How is the selection process?

Students are selected and paired with a Rice School of Engineering and Computing faculty host based on the application.

Will there be an interview?

At this time, there is no interview planned.