The nation’s global competitiveness depends critically on the readiness of its science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) seeks to continue its investment in programs that directly advance this workforce. As part of this effort, a supplemental funding opportunity is available in fiscal years 2019 and 2020 to provide support for non-academic research internships for graduate students and ultimately bolster career opportunities in all sectors of the U.S. economy.
The NSF’s Science and Engineering Indicators 2018 report reveals that 79 percent of master’s level STEM graduates and 57 percent of doctoral degree holders work in industry or government. It is therefore important that graduate students supported by NSF grants have opportunities to develop skills that prepare them for success in a broad range of academic and non-academic career paths. In addition to deep and broad preparation in their technical areas of expertise, skills and knowledge regarding communication, innovation and entrepreneurship, leadership and management, and policy and outreach are becoming increasingly valuable in any sector of the workforce.
The principal investigator of an active NSF award may request supplemental funding for one or more graduate students to gain knowledge, skills, and experiences through an internship in a non-academic setting that will augment their preparation for a successful long-term career. For eligibility, graduate students must have completed at least one academic year in their graduate programs and be satisfactorily progressing towards completion of their degrees. More details are available online.
Due dates for available funds:
- For FY 2019 funds: May 1, 2019
- For FY 2020 funds: May 1, 2020