EarthRISE Developers Academy: Shaping Future Leaders in Earth Science

The EarthRISE Developers Academy is a program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in science and technology. It offers students and early career professionals a unique opportunity to work on projects that use NASA data to solve real-world problems. This academy builds on NASA Langley Research Center’s extensive experience in workforce development, providing participants with hands-on research experience. Through collaborative projects, participants learn to develop innovative solutions that help partners make better, more efficient decisions. The program aims to bridge Earth science with the future of space exploration, equipping attendees with essential skills for success.

What is the EarthRISE Developers Academy?

The EarthRISE Developers Academy is an immersive program focused on applied research. Participants engage in short-term projects where they use NASA data to address challenges faced by partner organizations. These partners can include state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector entities. The academy’s approach emphasizes collaboration and professional growth, helping participants develop practical skills. It also provides opportunities for personality typing and team-building exercises, fostering interaction with experienced scientists and partner organizations. The goal is to prepare individuals for the demands of the growing geospatial workforce.

Benefits of Participation

Participating in the EarthRISE Developers Academy offers significant personal and professional advantages. Attendees can expect to improve their communication, presentation, and research abilities. The program also strengthens collaboration and technical skills, while expanding professional networks. Beyond project work, the academy includes activities like personality typing and team building. These elements help participants understand their strengths and how to work effectively in a team. The overall experience is designed to prepare individuals for the needs of the current geospatial job market.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the EarthRISE Developers Academy, applicants must meet several criteria. They need to be at least 18 years old by the program’s start date. A demonstrated background in Earth and environmental sciences, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, or computer science is required. U.S. citizenship or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) status is mandatory for all participants, whether the opportunity is in-person or virtual. Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale from their current or most recent educational institution. Additionally, participants must be able to commit 25 to 29 hours per week for the entire term during standard business hours.

Specific Requirements for Location

For in-person opportunities, participants are responsible for their own transportation to the academy location. For virtual positions, individuals must reside and work within the 50 U.S. states or Washington, D.C. throughout the program’s duration. Remote work from U.S. territories or outside the United States is not permitted for virtual roles.

Who Should Apply?

The academy welcomes individuals with skills in Earth, environmental, or planetary sciences, as well as remote sensing, GIS, and computer science. It is an interdisciplinary program, accepting participants from various fields and career stages. This includes current students, recent graduates, early career professionals, and those looking to transition careers. Ideal candidates are open-minded, enjoy working with others, are flexible, and possess a strong desire to learn. The program values a collaborative spirit and a willingness to adapt to new challenges.

How to Apply

The application process for the EarthRISE Developers Academy is managed through an online portal. Prospective participants can find the application link on the Opportunity Desk website or the official NASA EarthRISE Developers Academy page. It is important to note the application deadline, which is June 26, 2026, for the 2026 program. Applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before submitting their application. The program encourages a diverse range of applicants to apply and contribute to its collaborative research environment.

Frequently Asked Questions