Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit my application via email?

No. You can only submit your application via Talent Marketplace.

What are the parts of my application?

The application has two parts: (1) a form to fill out directly in Talent Marketplace (including participant and supervisor signatures) and (2) a PDF containing essay questions. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Is Supervisor endorsement required?

Yes. The supervisor’s application signature meets the endorsement requirement. Applications MUST be signed by supervisors to be considered. Unsigned applications will not be reviewed. Supervisor endorsement is committing to:

How do I know that my application has been received?

Talent Marketplace provides a confirmation screen after a submission is complete. Please note that unsigned applications will not be reviewed.

How many participants will be selected?

Twenty (20) Civil Servants from Science organizations will be selected from across the Agency.

Are contractors eligible to participate?

Unfortunately, like all other Agency leadership development programs, NASA LEADS is unavailable to contractors.

Are term civil servants eligible to participate?

Yes, term employees can participate in NASA LEADS, as long as there is sufficient time remaining in their appointment.

Why are scientists below GS-13 not eligible for this leadership development program?

LEADS is ideal for scientists who have had some exposure and experience in leadership roles, which is typically expected at the GS-13 and above level.  The Agency piloted a workshop entitled Science Career Opportunities Planning and Exploration (SCOPE) in 2023 which targeted early- and mid-career scientists.  Workshop materials can be found at: https://science.nasa.gov/about-us/scope-workshop-2023/.

What are the stages of the selection process?

Who will pay for the FTEs to participate in NASA LEADS?

Your organization will cover the ~0.2 FTE needed to participate in NASA LEADS. Supervisor endorsement acknowledges and commits to providing FTE support.

Who will pay for travel expenses to participate in NASA LEADS in-person sessions?

Your organization will pay for travel to all three NASA LEADS in-person sessions. Supervisor endorsement acknowledges and commits to providing travel support.

Is attendance to in-person sessions mandatory?

Yes. You cannot participate in NASA LEADS unless you attend and actively participate in all the in-person sessions. You are not eligible for participation if you cannot commit to traveling to these sessions. In-person sessions cannot be substituted by hybrid or remote participation. In-person completion of these sessions is required for NASA LEADS graduation.

Is synchronous participation in virtual courses mandatory?

Yes. You cannot participate in NASA LEADS unless you attend all the courses at the time they are taught. If you cannot commit to attending these courses, you are not eligible for participation.

Can I step out to attend non-LEADS meetings while at an in-person session or a virtual course?

No. All participants are expected to fully focus on NASA LEADS content for the duration of program activities. This is standard practice in all NASA leadership development programs. Supervisors will receive an orientation about NASA LEADS good-standing and graduation requirements during the program kickoff.

What are the requirements for program participation and completion?

To remain in good standing, a NASA LEADS participant will:

What activities are NASA LEADS participants required to attend?

Who do I contact if I have reasonable accommodation requests?

Requests for Reasonable Accommodations will follow the standard NASA process. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in NASA LEADS, please contact your Center Disability Program Manager. Please notify the APPEL KS Training & Support Specialist for the course if the accommodation requires support from the instructor or includes an additional attendee (e.g., a sign language interpreter).