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EarthRISE Developers Academy

Cultivating the next generation of Earth observation users

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Introducing EarthRISE Developers Academy

NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy builds the next generation of science and technology leaders by immersing student and early career scientists in projects using NASA data to address real-world challenges.

Building on Langley Research Center’s 25+ years of workforce development expertise, EarthRISE Developers Academy engages participants in short-term applied research projects. These center on developing innovative applied science solutions to help partners make more effective, efficient decisions. Through collaborative projects, professional development, and cooperation with state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector partners, the Academy equips participants with skills to accelerate innovation and bridge Earth science with the future of space exploration.

Who should apply? Applicants with demonstrated skills in Earth, environmental, and/or planetary sciences, remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and/or computer science are encouraged to apply. The NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy is interdisciplinary and accepts participants with experience in a variety of fields and at different phases of their careers. This includes currently enrolled students, recent graduates, early career professionals, and transitioning career professionals. Successful participants are open-minded, interested in working with others, flexible, and eager to learn.

What is the NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy experience like? Participants work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment on interdisciplinary teams of 4 to 5 participants. Teams work on applied research projects that will help a partner organization use Earth observations to enhance their management decisions and workflows. The projects typically fall within one of the following NASA Earth Action thematic areas: Agriculture, Disasters, Ecological Conservation, Energy & Infrastructure, Health & Air Quality, Water Resources, and Wildland Fires.

The short-term research projects take place in spring, summer, and fall. Each project will include:

  • A literature review on the scope, methodologies, and types of NASA remote sensing data applicable to the project;
  • Use of GIS and remote-sensing data to create application solutions for the partners;
  • A final presentation delivered to a variety of audiences; and
  • A final technical report and end products.

Each project team works under the guidance of a project coordinator, science advisors and mentors, and the NASA Langley Research Center’s EarthRISE Office.

Why apply? NASAEarthRISE Developers Academy offers participants an opportunity to enhance their personal and professional development. The experience helps build skills in communication, presentation, research, collaboration, technical capabilities, and networking. The Academy also offers personality typing, team building, and interaction with scientists and partner organizations. The experience helps participants prepare for the needs and demands of today’s growing geospatial workforce.

What next? Interested candidates should take the following steps: 

  • Read the Application Guide Page in full.
  • Review the Logistics and Projects Page. Information about the upcoming projects is included and may be updated throughout the application window.
  • Follow the link at the top of the Application Guide Page to access the EarthRISE Developers Academy Application Portal. Read all instructions, and then begin your application.  

Questions? Please refer to the FAQs Section. For answers not available there, contact the Langley EarthRISE Office at NASA-DL-ERDA@mail.nasa.gov.