Visiting Scientist Program

The Munsell Color Science Laboratory (MCSL) within Rochester Institute of Technology’s (RIT) Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science (CIS) is a unique international resource that educates technical experts and performs state-of-the-art research in the areas of color science. In addition to its graduate program in color science, MCSL offers a Visiting Scientist Program for industrial researchers, technical engineers and scientists. Since 1988 over 25 visiting scientists from various companies have come to MCSL to strengthen their color science education and research methodology for the benefit of their company. Read more about their experiences!

 

MCSL Visiting Scientists (VS) join a positive and inspiring research and educational atmosphere where they are encouraged to participate in activities within MCSL that will enhance their research such as, color science graduate courses, MCSL group meetings, seminars and research groups, as well as, departmental seminars and campus activities and facilities open to the community. Additionally, MCSL state-of-the-art facilities lend to a flexible and collaborative learning research and educational environment. Each VS will have a designated advisor during their stay; this advisor typically has a similar research interest. The VS has the ability to communicate regularly, one-on-one, with some of the world-renowned experts in the color field.

 

Visiting Scientists can spend anywhere from one to two years in residence working on research problems of interest to their company and MCSL researchers. A typical two-year VS would benefit from arriving late summer to settle into their living arrangements, become acquainted with the American lifestyle and take advantage of graduate courses offered in early September. After the first quarter of color courses has been completed, then the significant work on research projects will usually commence. Other schedules can be discussed upon request.

 

The current cost for a visiting scientist is $75,000/per year (assuming there are no additional equipment needs and that coursework is taken to enhance learning, not to obtain an advanced degree). This pays for facilities usage (metrology, consumables, MCSL scientist support, secretarial support, fax machine, shared office space and phone), faculty release time, and coursework.

 

The VS should arrive to MCSL with, or purchase, a personal computer. Our computing facilities are shared with all the MCSL students and scientists so having a personal computer will be to your advantage. 

 

The VS is responsible for their living expenses. The rental cost for a fully furnished apartment is approximately $1,500 (one bedroom) and $1,800 (two bedrooms) per month, including all utilities. Further information can be found at: http://www.rusticvillageapartments.com/ Other expenses, such as food and mandatory health insurance, are typically $500 per month.

 

It is strongly recommended that the VS have personal transportation, although it is not required. Many of our visitors purchased a used car and sell it before they leave. The other option is to use the Rochester Transit System (RTS) bus for $1 to/from RIT and shopping areas. Be advised, the schedule is not frequent. 

 

Specifics can be discussed in detail after visitor has applied and been approved by CIS and MCSL faculty. 

 

To apply please email the following information to Val Hemink or mail to:

Rochester Institute of Technology

Munsell Color Science Laboratory

54 Lomb Memorial Drive

Rochester, NY 14623 USA

 

1.) Candidate's name, a current resume including current job title and responsibilities, approximate English skills, and level of computer experiences.

 

2.) Preferred dates of arrival and departure.

 

3.) Research Proposal: 2-4 page description of proposed plan of study, preferred faculty advisor, and required equipment to carry out research.

 

Thank you for your interest in color science at RIT. MCSL looks forward to the opportunity to enhance your color education and research abilities.

 

If you have questions or need further clarification, please contact Val Hemink, MCSL Staff Assistant at: +1(585) 475-7189 (office), +1(585) 475-4444 (fax).