FAQ

 Q1: What is the NSF IRES Digital Twin Technologies in Logistics and Supply Chain Management program about?

A: The NSF International Research Experience for Students (IRES): Digital Twin Technologies and Supply Chain Management is a three-year research and training program funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation. It provides selected undergraduate and graduate students with a unique opportunity to conduct hands-on research in digital twin technology applied to logistics and supply chain systems.

Participants work under the mentorship of faculty from the University of Louisville (UofL) and the Institute of Information Systems (IWI) at the University of Hamburg, Germany, gaining both technical and cultural experience in a world-class international research environment.

Q2: How long is the program, and where does it take place?

A: Each cohort travels for approximately six weeks in Hamburg, Germany (June–mid-July), with preparatory and follow-up activities before and after the trip at the University of Louisville.

Q3: Is the program paid?

A: Yes. Each participant receives a $700 weekly stipend during the six-week international research experience.

Q4: What expenses are covered by the program?

A:  The program covers: 

1.  round-trip international travel between Louisville and Hamburg, 

2.  housing and meal plan in Germany, 

3. cultural immersion activities in Germany

4.  local transportation, 

5.  visa and health insurance costs.

Q5: Are there any out-of-pocket expenses?

A:  Most major expenses are covered, but students should plan for incidental personal expenses (souvenirs, leisure activities, extra meals, etc.).

Q6: Who arranges international travel?

A: The UofL IRES program coordinator will organize flights and travel logistics for all participants. Students will travel as a group from Louisville to Hamburg.

Q7: Will I need a visa to go to Germany?

A: U.S. citizens do not typically need a visa for short research stays in Germany (under 90 days). However, the program coordinator will confirm requirements and assist with any necessary documentation or visa applications. Visa processing starts in April.

Q8: Who accompanies the group during travel?

A: One of the UofL PIs (Dr. Gentili, Dr. Bai, or Dr. Aqlan) will travel with the students and stay for the first week in Hamburg to help with the transition and program setup.

Q9: Where will students stay in Hamburg?

A: Students will stay in university-affiliated dormitories arranged through Studierendenwerk Hamburg. All dorms include utilities (electricity, Wi-Fi, and water).

Q10: Are meals provided?

A: Yes. Students receive a meal plan through the Studienwerk Mensa, which offers affordable and varied dining options, including vegetarian and gluten-free meals.

Q11: Is transportation in Hamburg covered?

Yes. Each student receives a semester public transport pass covering buses and trains within the Hamburg region. Bike-sharing programs are also available.

Q12: Is health insurance provided?

A: Yes. The program provides international health insurance coverage for all participants during their stay abroad.

Q13: What about safety and conduct expectations?

A: Students are required to complete a pre-departure orientation at UofL, which includes training on professional conduct, cultural awareness, and policies on harassment and discrimination as required by NSF.

Q14: What are the main phases of the program?

A: 

• Phase 1 – Preparation (May): Virtual and in-person meetings, project assignments, and team building at UofL.

• Phase 2 – International Research (June–July): Six-week research experience in Hamburg, cultural tours, and final workshop presentations.

• Phase 3 – Follow-up (August–December): Research showcase at UofL, professional development workshops, final paper preparation, and virtual Meet & Greet events.

Q15: What types of research projects will I work on?

A: Projects are focused on logistics and digital twin applications, such as: last-mile delivery optimization, supply chain disruption modeling, warehouse inventory management, small-scale maritime logistics, autonomous vehicle fleet management, and intermodal transport simulation. Each project team includes one undergraduate and one graduate student, mentored by faculty from both UofL and the University of Hamburg.

Q16: Are there cultural activities included?

A: Yes. Students will participate in cultural tours such as visits to the Port of Hamburg, International Maritime Museum, and Airbus facilities, providing context to logistics and engineering in real-world settings.

Q17: Are there professional development opportunities?

A: Yes. Students participate in workshops and panels on publishing and presenting research, graduate school preparation (GRE workshop), academic and industry career pathways, and career readiness skills (leadership, communication, teamwork).

Q18: What happens after the trip?

A: Students present their research at UofL’s Undergraduate Arts & Research Showcase, finalize research papers for publication, and participate in virtual professional development sessions.

Q19: Will there be recognition for participation?

A: Yes. Participants receive a Certificate of NSF IRES Fellowship in LoDigital Twins and may compete for a Best Paper Award with a monetary honorarium.

Q20: How can I share my experience afterward?

A: Students will contribute to the program’s website and social media by posting blogs and short videos summarizing their research and cultural experiences.