Industrial Technology Research Institute

I spent a year at ITRI in 2007-2008 as a Henry Luce Scholar. Working at ITRI is a very fulfilling experience for those that are energetic in their time here. While the core of the work at ITRI (R&D) is probably the same as anywhere else, what ITRI and Taiwan offers you outside of the research is really what’s unique. Numerous events and seminars are held allowing you to learn about the economy and technology of Taiwan’s industry (many in English, make sure to get on the right list-serves). ITRI covers every research field on the planet. If your manager doesn’t want to make the link, go there yourself and find out what everyone is doing here. Take up a sport and build a network (very key in Asia). The people at the R&D level will usually be more than happy to talk to you and show you around ITRI’s facilities. Additionally, ITRI is one of Taiwan’s most powerful organizations, and its name allows you a chance to strike up a conversation with almost anyone. I’ve even been able to interview and speak with university professors, lawyers, and other interesting people just by flashing my name card.

Outside of the campus, night-markets offer a varied taste of Taiwan food and fun. Taiwan’s high-speed rail and bus system makes travel to the metropolis of Taipei a breeze, or to any of the southern and eastern tourist sites of the island. While knowledge of Chinese is of course useful, making friends with people at the nearby Universities or on the street is relatively easy regardless. There are foreigners at the Universities as well, but use your time as a rare opportunity to meet and get to know locals from another country! They and the ITRI folk are usually more than happy to show you around. I keep hearing of events where interns and employees go out to all sorts of places; I myself was busy almost every weekend.

Especially for those doing contract work or internships, where sometimes your project itself will not fully occupy your time, be energetic and get around. Get a motor-scooter (50cc are allowed no-test if you have an international permit) and go travel around town. If your boss is too busy to talk to you, go and make connections laterally. Play badminton, post on the ITRI bulletin board. Start learning Chinese. Build a network. Within a week you’ll find yourself far too busy for however long you are here.

Note: Sachin left ITRI in 2008 at the end of his fellowship program to return to the US.