2027 NSF SOARS First-Year Protege

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) • Boulder, CO

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The NSF Significant Opportunities in Atmospheric Research and Science (SOARS) program is an undergraduate-to-graduate bridge and career pathways program that supports research, mentoring, and community in atmospheric and Earth system sciences. Proteges take part in an 11-week summer research experience, with opportunities to conduct original research, complete written reports and presentations, attend seminars, and participate in peer and community mentoring. Students may participate for up to four summers. The program provides financial support for summer research, housing accommodations, round-trip travel to Boulder, Colorado, and conference travel opportunities.

Proteges conduct research at NSF NCAR, UCAR, UCP, or partner organizations in Boulder, Colorado. They work with research and writing mentors, attend training and professional-development activities, and complete specified research and communication deliverables. Proteges also help shape their experience by maintaining a work plan with their mentor team, communicating regularly, and contributing to a supportive program community.

The internship runs from May 17, 2027, through July 30, 2027. The stated stipend is $23.41 per hour, up to $936.40 per week, untaxed; proteges will need to file a 1099 for personal tax reporting. Final rates are based on education, experience, and relevant skills. This position does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or protected individuals as defined by 8 USC 1324b(a)(3).

Requirements

• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or associate degree program and have completed at least one year of undergraduate study.
• Have at least one semester of undergraduate coursework remaining after the initial summer program.
• Be working toward an academic major in atmospheric science or a related field, such as geosciences, chemistry, computer science, earth science, engineering, environmental science, mathematics, meteorology, oceanography, physics, or social and behavioral sciences.
• Have an interest in pursuing a career in atmospheric or related STEM disciplines.
• Have completed some college science and mathematics coursework.
• Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0; applicants with a GPA below 3.0 should address the circumstances in their research essay.
• Be willing to contribute to the NSF SOARS mission and interested in expanding knowledge in Earth system sciences or related fields.
• Demonstrate the ability or potential to lead and collaborate with peers and mentors and the desire or potential to excel in a STEM career.
• Meet the program's work authorization requirement: be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 USC 1324b(a)(3).
• Submit unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended, three essays, and contact information for two recommenders, including at least one faculty member or professor.

Nice To Haves

• Community college students and associate degree holders are welcome and encouraged to apply.
• Applicants may optionally present their research at a national scientific conference and contribute to NSF SOARS outreach.
• Applicants may optionally participate in future networking and mentoring events as program alumni.

Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific research at NSF NCAR, UCAR, UCP, or a partnering organization in Boulder, Colorado.
• Collaborate with research and writing mentors to advance the assigned project.
• Participate in training workshops covering scientific writing, data science, communication, leadership, and professional skills.
• Complete weekly writing assignments and meet project deadlines.
• Develop and deliver two scientific presentations, a research poster, a research paper, and an abstract by the end of the program.
• Co-create and maintain a summer work plan with the mentor team.
• Take initiative in organizing and leading mentor team meetings.
• Communicate regularly with mentors, seek and provide constructive feedback, and contribute ideas and collaboration to the mentor team and cohort.
• Contribute to a positive, welcoming, and professional community with peers.
• Participate fully in NSF SOARS events and activities, including technical and career-development seminars.
• Uphold the UCAR Participant Code of Conduct.
• Optionally present research at a national scientific conference, contribute to NSF SOARS outreach, and participate in future alumni networking and mentoring events.

Benefits

• Untaxed stipend of $23.41 per hour, up to $936.40 per week.
• Housing accommodations for the internship.
• Round-trip travel to Boulder, Colorado.
• Funded travel to a national scientific conference, if the protege presents research.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree