Opportunity

Webinar: Register here!

The application is now live for the 2024-2025 Climate Adaptation Scientists of Tomorrow (CAST) program! Applicants can be from anywhere in the US and the program covers travel, a living stipend, and provides housing for the 10-week experience for two summers.

The global climate is changing rapidly, already impacting both human and natural systems. Over the next few decades, changes in temperature, precipitation, and climatic variability are expected to drive even more change. To face these future challenges, we aim to recruit, train, and promote the advancement of undergraduate students who represent the nation’s diversity and demonstrate keen interest in climate change and advanced study in STEM.

The USGS Climate Adaptation Science Centers established the CAST Program to provide undergraduate research experiences to advance climate science and cultivate the next generation of climate scientists. That’s you!

Eligibility:

The undergraduate research experience is open to:

• Rising Sophomore or Junior (expected graduation in 2026 or 2027)
• Enrolled full time at an accredited academic institution In good academic standing (GPA of 3.0 or higher)

Applicants are especially encouraged if:

• You have a strong interest in climate adaptation science
• You are a member of a group historically and presently underrepresented in the sciences
• You want to work in a highly productive research environment

Apply online: https://umn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Uk2mv8yPsjvuT4

This application will include questions about your interest and three short essays (200-300 words). We strongly recommend drafting a response to the essays outside of the submission system and then, when complete, copying your responses into the submission system.

Please be prepared to upload a resume and unofficial transcript. Please also be prepared to submit the names and contact information for two professional references.

You may preview the application here: CAST Application Preview.

Contact info:

• General Questions: CAST@usgs.gov
• Program Lead: Olivia LeDee (oledee@usgs.gov)
• Coordinator: Elijah Johnson (etjohnson@contractor.usgs.gov