IGSR Visiting Student Researcher Program
The Institute for Gender and Sexuality Research (IGSR) is the official host for all visiting scholars in the Department of Gender & Women’s Studies.
Each year the IGSR hosts a number of visiting graduate students from the U.S. and abroad to conduct independent research under the mentorship of a GWS faculty member, and whose work is centrally on women, gender or sexuality. The program is open to students currently pursuing a degree in a degree-granting program at another university, and who possess at least a bachelor’s degree. Scholars may stay for any time period between 3-12 months.
The IGSR Visiting Student Researcher (VSR) Program is open to scholars who meet UC Berkeley's visiting student researcher definition
The IGSR provides VSRs with the following: visiting student researcher status at University of California, Berkeley; access to University of California, Berkeley libraries and library privileges; a session with the GWS Librarian customized to the scholar's research topic; and shared office space.
During their residency, scholars are expected to attend GWS events whenever feasible. The IGSR is non-stipendiary, and thus VSRs provide their own financial support during the residency. There are fees associated with being a VSR. (see below) Late payments are not possible. Please plan accordingly.
IGSR Visiting Student Researcher Application Instructions
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. All visiting student researchers must receive an invitation from a GWS faculty member.
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Prospective visiting student researchers who do not have an active collaboration in place with a GWS faculty member can look for a GWS faculty member whose research interests match their own. Faculty profiles can be found here: https://gws.berkeley.edu/about-gws/department-faculty
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Once a scholar has identified a potential faculty sponsor, they should provide the faculty member with the following information via email:
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current CV
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brief description of intended research (length should be 200 words or less)
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beginning and end date for their visit
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If the scholar receives an invitation from the faculty member, the scholar should then contact IGSR@berkeley.edufor details on the pre-arrival process.
Fees
There are several fees involved in the process of obtaining Visiting Student Researcher status at UC Berkeley.
- $1,000 University Services fee (to be paid online prior to processing of appointment)
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$1,000 department administrative fee if you are staying in excess of six months/$500 if you are staying six months or less
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$650 for the DS2019 host document for the J-1 Visa (for international visitors)
NOTE: A department administrative fee reduction may be requested if a scholar is arriving where there is financial hardship. This request should be included with your application. Please note that the J-1 visa fee and University Services fee are both mandatory and cannot be waived.
Information Regarding Visas
J-1 Visas
International visiting scholars will need to obtain a J-1 Visa to pursue their research in the IGSR. J-1 Visas are obtained by the issuance of a DS-2019 (which is the “certificate of eligibility”). There are several steps to securing a J-1 Visa and each step takes time. Plan for the visa application process to take 3-4 months, depending upon your home country.
Please note: Documentation of an “objective measurement” of English language proficiency is required for all J-1 Exchange Visitors. Either a recognized English language test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, etc) or signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school.
Additional Information
While we may be able to provide administrative advice, visiting student researchers assume full responsibility for matters relating to visa applications, health insurance, housing and living expenses.
Facilities
Visiting Student Researchers (VSRs) have access to the University’s libraries and are given normal borrowing privileges, and have access to shared office space. VSRs do not have access to administrative services, office supplies, and generally do not have the use of express mail services. VSRs are often able to consult with faculty members interested in their field of study, and to participate in the intellectual life of the department by attending presentations and colloquia.
Visiting Student Researchers in the Institute will be given access to the following:
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Use of the department copier
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Use of the department scanner
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An email address @berkeley.edu
Health Insurance
International Visiting Student Researchers must have adequate health insurance during the entirety of their appointment at UC Berkeley. For details, visit:https://internationaloffice.berkeley.edu/families/j-insurance
Questions?
All questions about the IGSR Visiting Scholar Programs can be sent to:
Gillian EdgelowResearch Program Administrator510-643-7172
