Job Description Summary:

UCAR is excited to announce the application opening of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Significant Opportunities in Atmospheric Research and Science (SOARS) program. NSF SOARS is dedicated to broadening participation in the atmospheric and related sciences. NSF SOARS is an undergraduate- to-graduate program created to include multiple summer research opportunities, mentoring by expert scientists, engineers, and science professionals; and a supportive learning community. The summer research experience includes opportunities to engage in original scientific research, written reports and presentations, seminars, as well as peer and community mentoring. Additionally, NSF SOARS includes year-round support, funding to attend conferences, and an engaged network. Successful Protégés are eligible to participate in the program for up to four (4) years.

NSF SOARS encourages applications from students who are members of communities that are systematically marginalized in the atmospheric and related sciences; including students who identify as African American or Black, American Indian or Alaska Native, Hispanic or Latinx, women, first-generation college students, veterans, and students with disabilities. Students from Minority Serving Institutions are encouraged to apply. NSF SOARS welcomes students who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community; undergraduates and Community College students who have experienced, and worked to overcome educational or economic disadvantages; and/or have personal or family circumstances that may complicate their continued progress in research careers.

Position Details:

Visa Sponsored Job:

No

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

No

Job Location:

Boulder, Colorado

Position Type & Term:

Full time, Term - Casual (Fixed Term)

Compensation Min - Mid Range:

Returning Undergraduate Students - $25.07/hr (up to $1,002.80/week), untaxed

Returning Graduate Students - $27.58/hr (up to $2,206.40/week), untaxed

*Please note that NSF SOARS Protégés stipends are not taxed, and as such will need to file a 1099 for personal tax reporting/filing purposes.

Application Notes

Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 11:59:59pm MT, Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Applicants will receive a status update by Friday, March 14, 2025.

Required application materials (preferably in PDF Format): 

• Unofficial Transcripts for the Fall semester of your current institution (uploaded at the time of application)

  • If you are not currently enrolled but will be for the upcoming academic year, please upload evidence of that fact.

  • Please remove/blackout your social security number and/or birth date if it is shown on your unofficial/official transcript(s).

• NSF SOARS Returning Protégé Questionnaire - (to be entered at the time of application)

  • Do you have mentors identified for this summer?

  • What are your research interests this summer?

  • Would you like to participate in a special project?

  • Are you deferring your participation for this summer, or do you intend to come back?

  • What is your anticipated graduation date?

  • Short Answer Essay: Describe how you will use your continued participation in SOARS to support your interests and goals. If you have ideas for this summer’s research, please describe those ideas and any steps you have already taken.  

Background checks are conducted for candidates who are offered the internship opportunity. Learn more.

Work Location:  This position is open to candidates seeking in-person and hybrid (combination of in-person and remote) opportunities. UCAR requires ALL positions to be performed within the U.S., excluding U.S. Territories.

Duration of Internship: Monday, May 19, 2025 - Friday, August 1, 2025 (11 weeks).

Travel & Accommodation: NSF SOARS Protégés will receive housing accommodations and round-trip travel to Boulder, CO for this internship. Pl