Immersive Undergraduate Research Experience  

The global climate is changing rapidly, already impacting both human and natural systems. Over the next few decades, changes in temperature, precipitation, and climatic variability are expected to drive even more change. To face future challenges, we need leaders— representative of our nation’s diversity— with expertise in climate adaptation, experience in multi-disciplinary collaboration, exceptional communication skills, and dedication to actionable science.  

In 2021, the Climate Adaptation Science Centers established the Climate Adaptation Scientists of Tomorrow Program to advance climate science and cultivate the next generation of climate scientists. 

Program Overview 

Undergraduate Research Experience, Features and Benefits:  

• Build your climate science skills, training, and development for two years   
• Join a cohort of 20 undergraduate students with common interests across the U.S.   
• Lead an undergraduate research project in your area of interest at a leading university  

• Build strong professional partnerships with a scientist-mentor, graduate students, and faculty scholars  
• Engage in university programs to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion  
• Participate in trainings to prepare for a career in climate adaptation science  

Eligibility:  

• Participants must be enrolled as a full-time student at an accredited academic institution (community college, college, or university) in the United States 
• Participants must be rising sophomores or juniors (i.e., anticipated graduation in 2026 or 2027) 
• Participants must be in good academic standing (GPA 3.0 or higher)  

Students from populations historically underrepresented in the sciences are especially encouraged to apply  

Financial Considerations:  

• Program provides 10 weeks of room and board for two summers  
• Program provides a stipend for two summers (depends on location, minimum of $5,000 per summer)  
• Program provides funds for round-trip travel to site  
• Medical/health insurance is not provided   

Participant Expectations:  

• Commit to build research and professional skills for two, 10-week summer research experiences (Summer 2024 and Summer 2025) at one of our four partner sites:
  • Auburn University
  • Louisiana State University
  • University of Massachusetts, Amherst
  • University of Colorado, Boulder

• Maintain regular and meaningful interaction with their mentor.  
• Actively participate in development and training events: multiple each Summer and two per academic year (Fall/Winter/Spring).  
• Produce a final report and deliver an oral presentation of their research and program experience.  
• Participate in program evaluations during and after program completion.  
• Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA for the duration of the program.  
• Foster a culture of respect, integrity, collaboration, and inclusion.  

Application Process 

The application period is open NOW for Summer 2024/2025 cohort. 

Submit your application for the CAST Undergraduate Research Experience here. The application period ends December 31, 2023.

The application will include questions about your interest and three short essays (200-300 words). We strongly recommend drafting a response to the essays outside of the submission system and then, when complete, copying into the submission system.  

Please be prepared to upload a resume and unofficial transcript. Please also be prepared to submit the names and contact information for two references.  

Questions and More Information 

For questions about the program, partnerships, and the application, please contact CAST@usgs.gov.