My first advice is to learn what we do
If you believe that my research area might interest you, please look
carefully at my web pages to learn about it. Feel free to download
presentation slides (available here )
and papers (if you are unable, please
let me know).
In the last years, I've been making emphasis on motion coordination algorithms for groups of autonomous vehicles and mobile sensors. As you will see, my emphasis is more on the theoretical aspects of mechanical systems (control theoretical aspects) than on mechanism design. In general, I am more likely to reply to a student who has taken the time to get some idea of what my research involves, especially if they can explain why they would be well-suited to make contributions in my research area.
There are some openings/fellowships available with the MAE department at UCSD
Let me now give some useful information about the graduate program at UC San Diego. The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at UCSD does offer financial support for incoming and outstanding graduate students. The process is documented online at http://ogsr.ucsd.edu/admissions/application/index.htm and http://ogsr.ucsd.edu/admissions/application/index.htm#financialIt is highly unlikely that I would offer a research assistantship before getting to know a student well or before receiving a strong recommendation from somebody I know personally. The preferred way to become my student is to submit a full application to UCSD in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department and to be admitted. Your application looks stronger if you mention my name and discusses how your preparation and interests are aligned with my research.