NRAO Summer Student Research Assistantship Program
NRAO’s Summer Student Research Assistantship offers hands-on radio astronomy research experiences with mentorship and opportunities for publication and presentations at observatory sites.
Funder: National Radio Astronomy Observatory
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Application form) | February 2027 (Letters of reference)
Funding Amounts: Stipend provided for 10–12 weeks; travel reimbursement up to $1,000; short-term lodging up to $300; housing included for Green Bank site.
Summary: Hands-on summer research assistantships for undergraduate and graduate students in radio astronomy at NRAO observatory sites.
Key Information: Program is in-person; students must arrange own housing at some sites; U.S. work eligibility required.
Description
The NRAO Summer Student Research Assistantship Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with the opportunity to engage in hands-on research projects in radio astronomy, instrumentation, telescope design, site evaluation, or software development. Students work closely with NRAO or Green Bank Observatory staff mentors at one of three primary sites: Socorro, NM; Green Bank, WV; or Charlottesville, VA. The program runs for 10–12 weeks during the summer and features lectures, workshops, social events, and opportunities to present research findings. Many projects lead to publications, and financial support is often available for students to present their work at professional meetings. The program aims to foster scientific growth and provide a strong foundation for future careers in astronomy and related fields.
