Young Scientist Program
The BMSIS Young Scientist Program (YSP) provides opportunities for students and eligible early career scientists to participate in basic research, learn about effective science communication, and develop critical thinking skills in ethics, policy, and more. Successful applicants join BMSIS as Research Associates (RAs) for the duration of the program.
BMSIS conducts two such programs:
- “The NASA/BMSIS Young Scientist Program in Space Biosciences” is a collaboration between NASA Ames Research Center Space Biosciences Division and BMSIS in developing the next generation of Space Biology professionals, which focuses on post-bachelors and pre-doctoral students. To apply for this program, students must be physically located in Mountain View, California, USA, and must also be accepted for working in a NASA Ames lab.
- “The BMSIS Young Scientist Program” focuses on undergraduate students and those who have completed undergraduate studies but have not yet enrolled in graduate school. This program is offered primarily as a remote, online program (though some projects do offer on-site training, pending on the location of the applicant). Research Associates with the BMSIS YSP work with one or more of our BMSIS research scientists on a variety of projects in Earth and space science, engineering, and science communication. While some of the projects do have funding, many of the projects are unpaid.
Applications for the 2021 BMSIS Young Scientist Program are now closed.
For those who’ve applied for the 2021 YSP, please be aware that due to the large number of applications we have received it may take several days before all of the decisions can be reported.
Funding is available for some YSP projects (see the list here) but not all. Unpaid YSP projects will last nominally a maximum of three months, while funded positions may last longer. NASA/BMSIS YSP Research Associates not pursuing a doctoral degree may remain in the program for a period of no more than 5 years. NASA/BMSIS YSP doctoral students may remain Research Associates up to their doctoral defense date.
Further Resources and Recommended Reading
National Academies – On being a Scientist: a guide to responsible conduct in research
Matt Abrahams – Speaking up without Freaking out
Randy Olson – Don’t be such a scientist
Peter Feibelman – A PhD is not enough
Adam Grant – Originals: how non-conformists move the world
Susan Cain – Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
Claude Steele – Whistling Vivaldi: How Stereotypes Affect Us and What We Can Do (Issues of Our Time)
Michael Walker – Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
Cal Newport – Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World
Josh Bernoff – Writing Without Bullshit: Boost Your Career by Saying What You Mean