The Collaborative Research Grant from the Columbia Climate School provides an opportunity for undergraduate and master’s students to undertake paid research alongside renowned Columbia University faculty for two semesters. The program is unique in that it is student-driven, allowing students to select and pursue a topic they are passionate about, while receiving guidance from a leading member of the scientific community. Prior to applying for funding, students must identify a project and seek the written approval of a faculty mentor who will be overseeing the project. Students will be asked to submit a project outline and timeline, as well as the letter from the faculty mentor. See below for more information on the application process and upcoming deadlines.
The Program
Students apply for funding for two semesters (fall 2022 to spring 2023), which will enable them to explore the research project more fully than a one-semester project would allow. Positions are funded at a rate of $21.50/hour for up to 10 hours a week, September through May (a maximum of 240 hours for both fall and spring semesters combined). Applications will be accepted from students from a variety of backgrounds and departments as long as the research focuses on an area related to climate or environmental sustainability. Please note that Barnard students, Teachers College students, and Ph.D. students are not eligible to apply.
The deadline to apply is Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 11:55pm (extended from August 30).
Students who are selected for a grant will be expected to participate in the Climate School Student Research Showcase in Spring 2023.
Contact Yana Zeltser (yz2321@columbia.edu) with questions.
To Apply
Applicants will need to submit an online application here with the following information combined into a single PDF file:
- Project outline: detailing the research question and proposed activities (no longer than 2 pages in length);
- Project timeline: detailing how the research activities will be explored during two semesters;
- Email or signed letter from faculty member (includes research scientists and professors of practice) agreeing to oversee the project.
