FAQ

Can the research statements include previously published work?

Yes. The research statements of participants accepted into the workshop will be posted publicly on this website. Though public, this does not count as archival publication. Therefore, we encourage submitters not to copy-and-paste from previous publications, but the statements need not adhere to the more stringent rules about novelty for archival publications. Research statements will be desk rejected if plagiarism of others' work is detected. 

Why do the research statements need to be anonymized?

In an effort to promote equity, increase diversity, and remove possible bias toward submissions on non-technical grounds, review of research statements will be double-blind. Submissions to this workshop should follow the same guidelines as submissions to the main RSS conference: http://www.roboticsconference.org/information/authorinfo/#double-blind-submission

The CV does not need to be anonymized because it will not go out for peer review. Decisions about invitations to the workshop will be made based on both the scientific merit of the ideas and work expressed in the research statement, as well as the student's publication record as reflected on the CV.

Can we reuse figures from our papers?

Yes, as long as anonymity is preserved.

Why are we asking for a Letter of Support?

The Letter of Support is meant to indicate that a trusted faculty member is aware of your submission to the Pioneers Program. The goal for requesting this letter is to expose applicants to the letter-writing process by initiating a dialogue with a faculty member. This skill of open communication is beneficial for many career paths that an applicant may pursue beyond applying to the Pioneers Program. A Letter of Support also encourages thoughtful, high-quality submissions to the Pioneers Program.

Importantly, this is not the same as a Letter of Recommendation. A Letter of Recommendation is a confidential statement that evaluates a candidate's potential for a job or academic position. The Letter of Support is both non-confidential and specific to the RSS Pioneers Program. Please use this template when preparing your Letter of Support.

Does the faculty letter of support need to specify monetary/travel support?

No. The letter is not intended for monetary support but a letter about the academic standing of the student.