On Campus IQP



Santa Fe

Project Center

Bootstrap

TERM D09

The Interdisciplinary and Global Studies Division (IGSD) is exploring the possibility of creating a new domestic project center in Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico. Santa Fe is a major center for native American culture and, thanks in part to its quaint adobe-style architecture, its dry weather, and its spectacular surroundings, high in the new Mexican desert (7,000 ft. above sea level), it is also a Mecca for both active and retired scientists and avant-garde artists. Due to the proximity of Los Alamos National Lab and the establishment within its boundaries of the world-renowned Santa Fe Institute, founded by George Cowan, WPI class of 41, Santa Fe has attracted top-notch researchers (including several Nobel-prize winners) in the advanced field of complexity theory applied to physics, biology, economics and political science. Recently, the Santa Fe Complex has been created to provide a space where art and science can interact for the benefit of the community.

We are seeking 3 or more WPI students, preferably Juniors, who are highly motivated and committed to exploring the feasibility of the creation of the Santa Fe Project Center (SFPC). This pioneering team will conduct a “bootstrap” IQP in Santa Fe in term D09 (March 16-May 5, 2009). Preparation will take place in term C09, starting this coming January. The team will interact primarily with the Santa Fe Complex and explore the logistics of operating a center in Santa Fe, including issues such as housing and local transportation. The team will meet with potential sponsors and develop a list of possible IQP and MQP projects that could take place in Santa Fe, starting in term D10. These project will probably be at the intersection of science and art, and will be aimed to benefit the local community and especially for the native Americans who live in Santa Fe. It is quite possible that the SFPC will be a hybrid IQP/MQP center, providing MQP opportunities to underserved majors such as MA and PH, as well as CS and ECE. If the pioneering bootstrap team determines that the SFPC is feasible, it will begin operating in term D10.

We will hold an info session on Monday 9/22 at 1pm in the HAGGLUND room at the Campus Center. Stephen Guerin, president of the Santa Fe Complex will be on hand to answer any questions.

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

For more info, email: carrera@wpi.edu

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