The NASA Science and Technology Institute (NSTI) Summer Scholars Program, a component of the Institute, is a ten-week summer research experience for undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines at a NASA Center.  NSTI Scholars will be matched with a mentor to conduct NASA-relevant research. Scholars will be placed at one of three NASA centers including:

• Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California
• Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas
• Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 In addition to conducting research with NASA scientists, scholars have an opportunity to participate in a variety of professional development training sessions that include modules on: 

1) Leadership Development

2) Scientific Communication

3) Presentation Skills

4) Team Building

5) Interviewing Techniques

6) Resume Building and Networking Skills

7) Responsible Research Ethics

Scholars will culminate their ten-week experience by presenting their research findings to their mentors, peers, and the NASA research community at an annual Poster Symposium.

Who are the NSTI Scholars?

 

Otis Smart (Cohort 1) recently obtained his Ph.D. in Electrical & Computer Engineering.  He is now a Post-Doctoral Fellow at Emory University in Atlanta, GA.	Quenton Bonds (Cohort 1) was awarded a JPFP fellowship after his rewarding SSP experience. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering at the University of South Florida.

 

---

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

• The NSTI was launched in June, 2006, at a national press conference sponsored by Google and attended by 75+ NASA representatives, higher education representatives, and Minority Institutions’ administrators, faculty, and students.

• Thirty-nine students, from both majority and minority institutions nationwide, have completed the NSTI summer research experience.

• Of the 39 awarded students, 4 have participated as a returning scholars.

• Scholars represent over 17 minority institutions and expand over 15  STEM disciplines, including Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Biology, & Material Science.

• While engaging in hands on research projects, scholars establish collaborations and peer-to-peer learning groups to further enhance their research experience.