Visitor Program
The U.S. National Science Foundation Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (NSF LIGO) Visitors Program has been hosting scientists and engineers since 1996. This program is mainly focused on applicants at the graduate level or above who wish to visit the NSF LIGO Laboratories to become involved in the science and techniques associated with the field of interferometric gravitational-wave detection, while at the same time contributing their accumulated skills and abilities to enhance the performance of the LIGO team. Applications from women and under-represented minorities are particularly welcome.
For undergraduate applicants, the LIGO Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program (SURF) provides opportunities for those wishing to gain research exposure to LIGO science and technology.
If you are interested in applying to be a LIGO Visitor, please send us the following materials:
- A CV and Publication List (with refereed publications clearly marked by an *).
- A completed application form.
Note that the application form includes a section on the justification for the visit, and asks the applicant to name a LIGO Laboratory sponsor. You should discuss the proposed visit with the sponsor before completing the form. If you need help to identify a possible sponsor, please send an e-mail to visitorprogram@ligo.caltech.edu.
Please note that further documentation may be required if your application is approved. Also note that at the end of your visit you will be required to submit a final report detailing your accomplishments.
Please allow at least two months between submitting your application and the proposed start date. For those who may require visas, a minimum of 3 months is advised.
Selection process
Evaluation of applicants will be made by the LIGO Staffing Committee - an internal committee whose members are appointed by the LIGO Director. Committee evaluations will be conducted once all the necessary material is received from each applicant.
Send applications to:
Nately Sych
MC 100-36
California Institute of Technology
1200 E. California Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91125
Phone: 626-395-3064
Fax: 626-584-5735
Email: visitorprogram@ligo.caltech.edu