Scholar Newsletter
December 8th, 2023
Voice of Inspiration
STEM News
Highlights from the National Diversity in STEM Conference
About SACNAS 2023 National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference
The annual NDiSTEM Conference was held on October 26-28 in Portland, Oregon. Image above highlights STEM Students recognized for their Research and Presentation Skills.
The largest multidisciplinary and multicultural STEM diversity event in the country, SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science) premier conference is a gathering which serves to equip, empower, and energize participants for their academic and professional paths in STEM.
Over the course of the event, college-level through professional attendees are immersed in cutting-edge STEM research, professional development sessions, motivational keynote speakers, and the Graduate School & Career Expo Hall, as well as multicultural celebrations and traditions, and an inclusive and welcoming community of peers, mentors, and role models. Simply put, the NDiSTEM Conference is a broadly inclusive space where you are encouraged and empowered to bring your whole self to STEM.
PRISM Scholars: Augsburg University
Three PRISM Scholars attended the conference, Jose Orozco Islas, Stephanie Gomez Olmedo, and Julio Tapia, and were accompanied by Professor Rebekah Dupont. Each scholar shared what they learned and also provided advice for other PRISM Scholars about attending a conference.
Jose Orozco Islas, Biopsychology
What I learned:
- There are a lot of jobs that don't explicitly say " laboratory work" for example there were many employers like FBI, CIA, Ancestry that hire even though they don't explicitly say " lab work."
- You can ask the faculty at a particular school you're interested in if they can give you a waiver for the application. Not all schools have this option but some schools do have this option and are willing to do so.
Advice about attending a conference:
- Please do attend the student presentation, it might seem a little overwhelming but it's so good to show support to other college peers and it's a great way to network.
- I would also recommend to talk to anyone there, everyone who is attending has some type of network that they can connect you with.
Stephanie Gomez Olmedo, Biopsychology/Data Science
What I learned:
- One of the things I have learned from this SACNAS Conference is the amount of diversity there is within a single company. There were companies that I thought would not have fit within my major but then they would provide examples where I could still apply for.
- Something that I also learned is the amount of opportunities offered to Latinx students. There were scholarships and support systems that were offered at different Graduate Schools that I would have not found/ been aware of if I didn’t attend this conference.
Advice about attending a conference:
- One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give to future attendees is to make sure to bring your resume for the Career Expo! A lot of the people from companies will go over your resume with you to make sure your resume fits what they are looking for and it helps create personal connections with both employers and Graduate school representatives.
- Be open to talk to anyone/everyone. During lunch I was able to find an opportunity at a graduate school I was interested in, because I just so happened to sit next to a professor from the school in a lab that I was interested in.
Julio Tapia, Chemistry
What I learned:
- During my conference experience, I was immersed in invaluable insights that will significantly aid me in achieving my future aspirations.
- I seized the chance to engage with diverse employers, discovering a multitude of opportunities encompassing internships, programs, and potential employment. I was able to maintain connections with a variety of employers while given the opportunity to submit my resume for future prospects.
- Moreover, I established connections with numerous universities nationwide. Conversations with their representatives shed light on post-undergrad prospects, especially regarding PhD and post-bachelor programs. These interactions pushed me closer to discerning the most suitable institution and program aligning with my interests and ambitions.
- The conference also facilitated connections with fellow undergraduates through poster sessions, where a magnitude of scientific fields were showcased. Interacting with students from various schools offered insights into their experiences and aspirations, enriching my perspective.
Advice about attending a conference:
- To future attendees, I highly recommend considering the conference experience. It's not merely about networking with potential employers and schools; it's a platform to expand your social circle and discover previously unexplored opportunities.
- It's a window into a world of possibilities awaiting you after completing your undergraduate studies, fostering an open mind to new pathways and ideas that might have otherwise never faced you.
STEM Events
NASA STEM GATEWAY
NASA Student Opportunity: 2024 Human Research Program Investigator’s Workshop
Are you an underrepresented students pursuing biology who might like a peek into the world of the space medicine at NASA?
Please consider applying for a travel award to attend the 2024 Human Research Program Investigator’s Workshop! If awarded, you will join students attending together as a small cohort.
Eligibility:
- Undergraduate students 21 and older enrolled full-time in a STEM degree program at a Minority Serving Institution (MSI)
- Institution that does not already have a NASA Human Research Program grant/award
- Passion for Space Life Sciences
- Available to travel February 13-16, 2024 to Galveston, TX
Application link:
Engagement Opening: Human Research Program -Student Travel Award (nasa.gov)
For questions, please contact Alicia Baturoni Cortez at alicia.baturoni@nasa.gov
STEM Opportunities
Discover Summer Institute in Biostatistics (SIBS) at Michigan and Columbia
Join us for an Informational Webinar about Summer Institute in Biostatistics (SIBS) Programs at Michigan & Columbia
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15
12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
REGISTER FOR THIS VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION
NIH grant R25HL161786
Summer Institute for Training in Biostatistics and Data Science at Columbia
May 28, 2024 - July 12, 2024
Apply by March 15, 2024
NIH grant R25HL147207
Big Data Summer Institute at the University of Michigan
June 17, 2024 - July 26, 2024
Apply by March 15, 2024
What is the Summer Institute in Biostatistics and Data Science program?
The Summer Institute in Biostatistics (SIBS) and Data Science is sponsored jointly by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
The comprehensive six to seven week summer training course on biostatistics and principles of data science combines classroom learning with career mentoring and hands-on data analysis using data collected from clinical studies in prevention and treatment of infectious, immune-mediated, and chronic diseases.
Designed to address a growing imbalance between the demand and supply for biostatisticians and data scientists, the course targets undergraduates and beginning graduate students who are interested in learning about biostatistics, and encourages them to consider graduate programs related to biostatistics and data science.
The typical curricula include an intensive introduction to biostatistical approaches and research by exposing participants to the principles, methodologies, uses, and applications of statistical methods in biomedical and clinical research.
Click the link for more information: Summer Institute in Biostatistics and Data Science
Summer Research at the University of Michigan
Spend nine weeks on an intensive research project. The Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP) aims to expand access and opportunity to diverse students and facilitate their preparation as a pathway to doctoral studies at the University of Michigan.
Eligibility:
- Be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or non-U.S. citizens with DACA.
- Have a minimum overall 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
- Be entering their junior or senior year in college (at a school other than the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor) and not be scheduled to graduate before December 2024.
- Have an interest in pursuing a graduate degree in one of the Rackham graduate programs.
- **NOTE** Please refer to the SROP Website for important additional criteria/FULL eligibility information
Benefits:
- $5,000 Stipend (plus travel expenses)
- Housing and Meals
- Weekly Seminars and Graduate School Coaching
- Research Symposium
Program Dates: May 25 to August 1, 2024
Application Deadline: February 5, 2024
SROP Informational and Application Workshops
Session 1
Tuesday, November 28, 20238:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (EST)
Session 2
Thursday, December 14, 2023
8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (EST)
Session 3
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (EST)
Get Paid to do Physics Research at the University of Maryland in Summer 2024!
Schedule a one-on-one meeting here
Application deadline: February 9, 2024
Applicants notified: Starting February 19, 2024
Program dates: June 3 to August 9, 2024
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What's TREND?
A mentored, paid summer REU (research experience for undergraduates) in nonlinear dynamics at UMD College Park. We welcome physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering students from institutions across the country to collaborate with scientists conducting research in an wide range of topics.
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What will I get?
- 10 weeks of mentored research experience in some of the best nonlinear dynamics labs
- Travel funds to UMD and back home
- Housing at UMD for the summer (with ~9 other TREND students)
- $5,400 stipend + $600 food allowance
- $500 for travel after the summer to present your research at a conference
- Community-building with ~9 other undergrad researchers
- Practice and mentoring with oral, visual, written and multimedia communication skills
- Outreach opportunities
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What kind of research can I do?
Projects topics include:
- 2D materials
- Biodynamics/Cell movement
- Chaos
- Lasers
- Neural networks
- Photonics/Optoelectronics
- Plasma dynamics
- Quantum nanodevices
- Turbulence
- Underwater robot dynamics
- Weather prediction
... and more. Details here under each mentor group.
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How do I apply?
Submit (by February 9, 2024):
- Our application form
- At least one letter of recommendation (ask each recommender to send to trend-reu@umd.edu)
- Unofficial transcript (send it to trend-reu@umd.edu)
Details here.
Eclipse Ambassadors
Are you an astronomy enthusiast or undergraduate student that loves eclipses? Do you have a passion for sharing the wow of space science with your community? NASA may have just the opportunity for you.
In 2023 and 2024, two eclipses will cross the United States and a new NASA-funded program, Eclipse Ambassadors Off the Path, is inviting undergraduate students and amateur astronomers to join them as “NASA Partner Eclipse Ambassadors”. This an opportunity to partner with NASA, provide solar viewing glasses, and share eclipse knowledge with underserved communities off the central paths.
Eclipse Ambassadors will train together virtually in one of several workshops to be offered over the next year. Eclipse Ambassador partnerships will grow together, learning new tools and techniques for explaining eclipses and engaging with the public. As NASA Partners, Eclipse Ambassadors will be recognized for their commitment to public engagement and supplied with educational materials and community connections.
Eclipse Ambassadors will:
- Partner with an undergraduate/amateur astronomer
- Take a 3-week online course (~12 hours coursework)
- Engage their communities with eclipse resources by reaching 200+ people, with at least half of those from underserved communities
NASA’s Eclipse Ambassadors Off the Path project is supported by NASA under cooperative agreement award number 80NSSC22M0007 and is part of NASA's Science Activation Portfolio. Learn more about how Science Activation connects NASA science experts, real content, and experiences with community leaders to do science in ways that activate minds and promote deeper understanding of our world and beyond: https://science.nasa.gov/learners
This is an open call to to become an Eclipse Ambassador.
NASA's Human Lander Challenge (HuLC)
Awards include $7,000 stipends per team, $18,000 in cash prizes, and a visit to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center!
Through the 2024 HuLC competition, NASA seeks near-term, innovative solutions
for Human Landing System (HLS) challenge areas... specifically addressing
the mitigation of lunar Plume-Surface Interaction (PSI).
HuLC solicits proposals for innovative, systems-level solutions that can help NASA understand, mitigate, and manage the impacts of lunar PSI - with the ability to be implemented within 3-5 years. The potential solutions could include, but are not limited to, the following categories:
- Trade Studies on Landing Trajectories that Minimize PSI
- Reduction / Mitigation of Erosion (Cratering) and Ejecta during Descent, Landing, and Ascent
- Development of PSI Flight Instrumentation / Measurement Methods & Concepts
- Tracking Dust During Descent, Landing, and Ascent
- Instrumentation Performance Through the Dust Cloud During Landing
- HLS Asset Safety (ejecta damage, excessive lander heating, etc.)
- PSI Modeling and Validation
Proposals are due on March 4, 2024
HuLC is open to teams of undergraduate and graduate students at accredited colleges and universities in the United States. Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) are encouraged to apply. Based on a review of initial proposals received by March 2024, up to 12 teams will be selected to continue developing their proposed concepts. Each finalist team will receive a $7,000 stipend to facilitate full participation in a competitive design review at a Forum in Huntsville, Alabama in June 2024.
This is only a brief excerpt of the 2024 HuLC competition.
Please read the full, printable 2024 Challenge Guidelines by clicking the button below.
Consider The TRIO McNair Scholars Program
Attention PRISM Scholars please consider this dynamic program aimed at supporting your educational goals in research and graduate school!
For PRISM Scholars at Century College, Minneapolis College, and Normandale Community College who are transferring in Fall 2023 or Spring 2024, we invite you to consider McNair at Augsburg as part of exploring transfer to Augsburg.
Although Augsburg’s TRIO McNair Scholars Program is recruiting students for Fall 2023 admission, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all participant slots are filled.
Eligible applicants will be at Junior status by the end of Spring 2024 and available to conduct full-time research Summer 2024. Students from all majors are welcome to apply, though preference is given to applicants that are interested in pursuing a doctoral (Ph.D.) degree.
The TRIO McNair Scholars Program works with students who are members of groups underrepresented in graduate education and who exhibit strong academic potential. The goal of the program is to prepare Scholars for graduate study through coursework, academic advising, workshops, and involvement in undergraduate research and other scholarly activities. The program also assists with securing admission to and financial assistance for enrollment in graduate programs. Students will acquire the research skills necessary to succeed in graduate school through a paid research internship ($6000) with an Augsburg faculty member during Summer of 2024.
The McNair Scholars Program is federally-funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Therefore, to be eligible, applicants must be first-generation (neither parent graduated from a four-year college or university) AND low-income AND/OR may be persons from groups underrepresented in graduate education. The Department of Education defines these groups as African-American, American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Hispanic/Latino. Additionally, applicants must be either U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents and maintain at least a 2.8 cumulative GPA (3.0+ preferred).
Unsure if you qualify? Please visit the link below for more information on eligibility requirements.
Determining McNair Eligibility “Cheat Sheet”
PRISM Scholars from our partner institutions are encouraged to apply. If you’re interested in learning more about McNair, please contact Lara Crombie, Program Coordinator, crombie@augsburg.edu. Lara is available to meet over Zoom.
Visit https://www.augsburg.edu/mcnair/ for more information.
Scholarships and Internships
Metropolitan Council Internship Programs
The Met Council's internship programs educate and mentor interns through professional, on-the-job training and development.
The Met Council's Internship Program offers a wide variety of opportunities to qualifying interns. Our programs — traditional, Met Scholar, and Ability internships — are designed to educate and mentor interns by providing professional on-the-job training and development. Participants receive an hourly rate of $22.20! Most interns work full-time during the summer, and some opportunities continue part-time through the school year.
2024 Program Dates
There are two internship cohorts:- Winter internships start March 25, 2024
- Summer internships start May 28, 2024
Most internships end Aug. 23, 2024, with some extending into the school year.
Applications
The 2024 application period runs from Nov. 13, 2023, to Dec. 17, 2023.
Sample position available: 2024 Intern-Business Analyst Intern/$22.28hr/ Hybrid
Email alerts
Sign up for email reminders to apply.
Info session
Join us for a one-hour session on Dec. 5 to learn more about the Metropolitan Council's 2024 winter and summer internships. Register for the session.
Types of Summer Internships
The Met Council offers internships in these three tracks:
Traditional internship program
Our internship program offers a well-rounded experience for students seeking an opportunity to advance their learning with hands-on projects.
Internships give students a new perspective on public service while developing themselves professionally through exposure to their field and networking with others in the organization. Interns are a valuable asset to our teams because they use their knowledge and skills to help solve challenges that our region faces. Whether they are out on a construction site, in the lab, or in the office, their work at the Met Council matters.
We provide the learning resources, trainings, and mentorship needed to help interns succeed in their assignments. Our interns receive an hourly salary, with most working full-time during the summer. Some positions have part-time work during the school year.
Met Scholars leadership and professional development program
The Met Scholars Program is a leadership and professional development internship program providing college students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds with distinctive professional experience. The program is focused on essential leadership skills and creating resume-building career pathways, training the next generation of leaders.
Scholars spend four days a week working on meaningful projects and work assignments alongside organizational leaders. One day a week, Scholars come together as a cohort to learn and practice skills in leadership, professional development, small groups, and public speaking.
Students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to apply to the program.
Ability Program
Our Ability Internship Program is a 12-week program designed to increase Met Council internship opportunities for people with disabilities.
The program helps students gain public sector experience and provides the opportunity to learn more about our work environment and our inclusive culture within the Met Council. This program helps create a connection with talent around our region and expands Met Council employment opportunities for people with disabilities who have skillsets that align with agency requirements.
Ability Program interns receive the same benefits and learning opportunities as traditional interns.
Eligibility
To participate in these programs:
- You must have completed at least one year of post-secondary education; and/or have been enrolled in a post-secondary educational program within the last 12 months.
- You must be a citizen or national of the United States; a lawful, permanent resident; or have authorization to work in the United States. (Documentation to verify employment eligibility will be required at the time of employment.)
Minnesota SciTech Internship Program
SciTech connects college STEM majors to paid internships at small Minnesota companies -- it's a one-stop shop for finding STEM internships statewide! Gain hands-on experience, network with pros, build your resume, and "earn while you learn."
In order to be eligible for SciTech internships, students must meet the following criteria:
- Minnesota resident OR living in and attending college in Minnesota
- At least 18 years of age
- In good academic standing (2.5+ GPA)
- College junior or senior (at least 60 credits completed) OR
- Technical or community college student (at least 24 credits completed) OR
- Enrolled in a STEM degree at an accredited U.S. college
- Legally eligible to work in the U.S. (international students may participate if they have CPT/OPT work authorization)
Deadline to apply: Varies
For more information on how to apply and to view a list of current internship opportunities, visit https://scitechmn.org/.
More Than An Internship
Wallin's UpTurnships program provides highly motivated, underrepresented college students with paid internships and projects. Our career experiences are for college sophomores, juniors, and seniors currently enrolled in a two-year or four-year college or university.
To help students succeed in their careers, we offer two incredible UpTurnships pathways: Flagship and Projects.
UpTurnships
Flagship
Our UpTurnships Flagship provides interns with paid full-time work experience across 12 weeks in summer, professional development training, and 1:1 support from a program coach.
UpTurnships
Projects
Our UpTurnships Projects is a 10-week pathway that provides interns with a 40 hour paid work experience, weekly 2-hour professional development trainings, and 1:1 support from a program coach.
Information Sessions: Register
Information sessions are an essential part of the UpTurnships application process. Here you will learn more about the UpTurnships program model, the application process, and be able to ask any questions you have. 30-minute information sessions are hosted on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Tuesdays at 10:00 AM CST
Thursdays at 4:00 PM CST
Visit our website for more information: https://www.wallinpartners.org/upturnships.html
Graduate School and Research
The NIH-sponsored Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP)
Who Should Apply?
The UW-Madison PREP program is for students underrepresented in STEM who:
- are seeking doctoral graduate degrees in biomedical science
- have received their baccalaureate (4-year) degree in the past three years
- are not currently enrolled in graduate school
- want additional research experience and development
- want to conduct research at one of the 10 largest research institutions in the world
- would enjoy living somewhere with stunning lake views and a vibrant community
Benefits of UW-Madison PREP:
- Dedicated research faculty & staff support
- Research experience
- Professional development opportunities
- Individualized mentorship
- Connections to the scientific community
- Focus on your health, wellness, and belonging
- PREP Scholar annual salary
Connect with STEM at Stillman School of Business
By 2028, it is estimated that there will be more than a million jobs in the STEM field. In preparation, the Stillman School of Business at Seton Hall University offers STEM-designated programs that will equip you to use technology, data and business analytics to make effective business decisions and solve complex problems. Learn more click below:
STEM Blog
Interested in learning more about advocacy, research and how it relates to the human experience? NSF Gallery Images? Click below:
Diversity in Action November/December Issue
Dr. Suzanne Kite explores AI from a Native American perspective in Diversity in Action's November/December cover story. We also feature a VA program helping veterans share their stories, diverse aviators and the world's whitest paint that could fight climate change. Read it here:
Diversity in Action November/December Issue
- NSF-supported research impacts nearly every field of science and engineering. NSF's influence reaches from the ends of the Earth to the depths of the oceans and to space and beyond. Our Multimedia Gallery has some of the most stunning images from NSF’s research legacy. We have pulled some of the most beautiful gallery images for you to use as a virtual background.
Do you have suggestions for opportunities to include in the upcoming newsletter? Feel free to forward them to stem@augsburg.edu.
Augsburg STEM Programs
Email: stem@augsburg.edu
Website: https://www.augsburg.edu/stem/
Location: 2211 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Phone: (612) 330-1042