The Ministry of Environment (Minam), through the Geophysical Institute of Peru (IGP), is pleased to announce its annual International Research Experience Program at the Jicamarca Radio Observatory in Lima, Peru. This program, called JIREP, started in 2006 and is aimed at undergraduate and graduate students who wish to gain experience in radar technology and scientific instrumentation for geospatial research. JIREP is sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation and Cornell University with local collaboration from Science International.

The Geophysical Institute of Peru from its base at the Jicamarca Radio Observatory, currently has the mission to increase the knowledge of the equatorial and low latitude atmosphere and ionosphere and the systems to which they are coupled; promoting the creation of state-of-the-art radar and radiodetection techniques, training and education for new generations of space physicists, scientists and radio technicians, expanding their own capabilities through updating and invention. Thus, increasing their influence at the international level.

Students will work with engineers and staff scientists on projects related to ongoing research or instrumentation development programs. Research may be conducted in ionospheric and neutral atmosphere science, as well as radar/radio instrumentation and software development.

Given its location, operating frequency, and array system, most of the IGP’s research capabilities are unique. For example, this is the best place in the world where radar images of atmospheric and ionospheric events can be learned and explored. In addition to the unique research capabilities where students can propose and perform their own experiments.

The institution offers a good opportunity to gain hands-on experience in different aspects of radar systems, from changing antenna connections, upgrading the RF components of the system, to developing sophisticated acquisition and processing programs. Students will also be exposed to frequent lectures and seminars given by staff and visiting scientists. In addition, students are also asked to give lectures at the beginning and end of their experience. An additional benefit of the program is that students will learn about Peru, heir to millenary cultures and rich colonial tradition.

Acknowledgements

The Geophysical Institute of Peru is grateful for the support of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) through Cornell University for the uninterrupted operation of the largest ionospheric radar of its kind at our Jicamarca Radio Observatory. The JIREP International Program is part of the agreement that seeks to promote scientific research and technological development.