Research

Looking for research opportunities this year? Below are opportunities both at UT and beyond in all areas of STEM! While you apply, remember to mention GeoFORCE in your applications.

Find REUs currently taking applications HERE!

This spreadsheet catalogues interesting research programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Please review closely and follow the links to program websites for further information.

If you know of any other opportunities that would be good for GeoFORCE alumni, please let us know at geoforce@jsg.utexas.edu!

UT Austin – Jackson School of Geosciences (JSG)

NextSteps Geosciences

Are you interested in conducting exciting new research, receiving one-on-one mentorship from scientists at the top of their field, and gaining vital professional skills you can put to use right away? Apply to the NextSteps Geosciences (formerly RTX) program this summer! Students will conduct research in current geology, earth science, or environmental science topics shaping todays world while gaining the professional skills to excel in their future endeavors.

You would:

• Spend nine weeks (May 31, 2026–Aug. 1, 2026) conducting research at UT Austin.
• Conduct independent hands-on research in a geosciences specialty guided by a mentor from the Jackson School of Geosciences.
• Participate in comprehensive short courses covering data analytics, digital tools, and Python programming for the geosciences.
• Attend weekly group workshops to advance research and professional skills, including how to write an abstract, presentation techniques, stress management, and completing graduate school applications.
• Learn about both academic and non-academic geosciences professions to help determine your future career path.
• Have access to ongoing support for educational and professional development.
• Having housing & transportation to & from Austin covered.
• Receive up to $6,000 in financial compensation

Applications are open now! Apply HERE

Applications are due by February 6th, 2026

GEOPAths GO: Jamaica!

Are you interested in conducting interdisciplinary research in Jamaica this summer? Apply to be part of this team and get the chance to perform cutting-edge research on critical coastal ecosystems in Jamaica (and Texas)! Students will also research how these ecosystems are impacted by anthropogenic change and learn how different aspects of biology, chemistry, and oceanography intersect in the Earth Sciences.

You would:

• Spend approximately five weeks during Summer 2026 researching in Austin, Texas and Jamaica.
• Conduct cutting-edge research on various aspects of critical coastal ecosystems
• Learn about the connection between the Earth Sciences and conservation efforts on a tropical island.
• Work alongside distinguished scientists from the University of Texas and the University of the West Indies-Mona.
• Have the chance to present your research at a national conference (ex. GSA, AGU, etc.) with funding for your trip covered.
• Have housing during field work, travel, and research expenses covered. You will also receive a stipend of $18/hr for 20hrs/week.

Applications will open on December 6th, 2025 and are due February 1st, 2026

Opportunities Outside of UT Austin

NSF SOARS

Are you interested in atmospheric and Earth system sciences? Apply for the NSF Significant Opportunities in Atmospheric Research and Science (NSF SOARS) program! This program is for undergraduate students interested in connecting with new graduate school and career pathways with research, mentoring, and community built in.

You would:

• Spend ten weeks conducting original research at the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR) or at laboratories of other NSF SOARS sponsors.
• Collaborate closely with research and writing mentors to advance your project.
• Participate in training workshops on scientific writing, data science, communication, leadership, and professional skills.
• Develop and deliver two scientific presentations, a research poster, a research paper, and an abstract by the end of the program.
• Take initiative in organizing and leading mentor team meetings.
• Participate fully in NSF SOARS events and/or activities with occasional social events occurring outside of standard work hours, as well as funded travel opportunities.
• Engage in technical and career development seminars with peers and scientists.
• Earn $23.41/hour (up to $936.40/week)

Applications are open now! Apply HERE

Register for their webinar to learn more about How to Apply to NSF SOARS on November 13 at 3:00 pm cst

Applications are due January 20th, 2026 at 11:59pm

NSF Funded REU’s

The US National Science Foundation (NSF) funds a large number of Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) throughout the year. An REU Site consists of a group of ten or so undergraduates who work in the research programs across the nation and possibly in foreign locations. Each student works closely with faculty members and other researchers at the university they’ll be conducting research with. Students are granted stipends and, in many cases, assistance with housing and travel. Applications for each REU are submitted through the host university’s website. Undergraduate students supported with NSF funds must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or its possessions.

Search for REU’s currently taking applications HERE

View a list of REU’s in all STEM fields HERE