Young Scientist Program
The BMSIS Young Scientist Program (YSP) provides opportunities for students to participate in basic research, learn about effective science communication, and develop critical ethical thinking. 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. Students must be physically located in Mountain View, CA and working in a NASA Ames lab to qualify.
- “The BMSIS Young Scientist Program,” which focuses on undergraduate students (or equivalent) is a typically unpaid online-only program with the same requirements as the NASA program, except that the research mentors are BMSIS scientists instead of NASA Space Biology scientists. Applications for the 2020 Online Young Scientist Program will be open from March 1 to April 15.
YS’s may work on-site or remotely, depending on the needs of the project, mentor, and YS. Funding is available for some projects (see the list here) but not all. Unpaid YS projects will last nominally a maximum of three months. Funded YS positions may last longer. NASA/BMSIS YS’s not pursuing a doctoral degree may remain YS’s for a period of 5 years. NASA/BMSIS YS Doctoral students will remain YS’s up to their 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