Astronomy
Promoting an Inclusive Community in Astronomy at CU Boulder
PICA is a diversity group primarily run by graduate students with support from faculty members in the Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences Department. We dedicate our time to raising awareness of actions that can increase diversity and inclusiveness within the Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences Department. We work towards providing a safe space for graduate students to discuss challenges they face in the department as well as in the wider field of STEM.
http://www.colorado.edu/aps/graduate-students/promoting-inclusive-community-astronomy
American Astronomical Society
Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)
The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and supports active research participation by undergraduate students in astronomical research. REU projects involve students in meaningful ways in ongoing research programs or in research projects specifically designed for the REU program. Students may not apply to NSF to participate. Students apply directly to REU Site.
Summer Opportunities
Summer programs that are not part of the NSF REU program are included on Summer Opportunities page.
Fellowships
Astronomy Fellowships are advertised by the institutions in the Job Register.
Science Policy Fellowships
In addition to the AAS John Bahcall Public Policy Fellowship, there are several other options for AAS members to enter the world of science policy.
Pathways to Science
Pathways to Science is a project of the Institute for Broadening Participation (IBP). It supports pathways to the STEM fields: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Pathways to Science places particular emphasis on connecting underrepresented groups with STEM programs, funding, mentoring, and resources. Its website can be used to find undergraduate summer research opportunities, graduate fellowships, and postdoctoral positions.
National Science Foundation Undergraduate Research Opportunities
https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/
BSI Scholars in STEM Undergraduate Research
This program, new in 2016, replaces both the BURST and UROP-HHMI funding programs.
Independent research is a time-intensive endeavor. You should have a strong interest in conducting research given the demands of finding a lab, applying for funding, and gaining background knowledge and training - all before actually conducting research. Once in the lab, you should expect to spend at least 10 hours per week on research during the school year and 20-40 hours per week during the summer.
Additional Resources
GRE Fee Reduction Program
http://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/about/fees/reductions