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Undergraduate Research Assistant Program
The Climate School offers undergraduate students research assistant opportunities. Undergraduates from the Climate School’s partner programs serve as research assistants on projects related to climate, sustainable development, and the environment with distinguished faculty and researchers at the cutting edge of this burgeoning field.
While research assistant positions at Columbia University are generally awarded to graduate students, this program instead aims to present undergraduates with a unique opportunity to be involved in research at a high level and to gain valuable experience and skills for their future academic and professional careers.
Eligibility
Please note that as of Fall 2024, undergraduate RA program eligibility is limited to students from the following Climate School partner programs only:
- DEES/SDEV joint major in Climate and Sustainability, must be declared (CC, GS)
- Sustainable Development undergraduate major -or- minor, must be declared (CC, GS)
Internship Program
The Climate School offers internships for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students from the Climate School and its partner programs. The internships in diverse administration, communications, and research roles with climate and sustainability-related projects provide hands-on workplace experience, allowing professional learning and growth.
Eligibility
Please note that as of fall 2024, internship program eligibility is limited to students from the following Climate School and partner programs only:
- MA, Climate and Society (CS)
- MS, Climate (CS)
- MS, Climate Finance (CS)
- MS, Sustainability Management (SPS)
- MS, Sustainability Science (SPS)
- MPA, Environmental Science and Policy (SIPA)
- MPA, Development Practice (SIPA)
- PhD, Sustainable Development (SIPA, GSAS)
- PhD, Earth and Environmental Science (GSAS)
- DEES/SDEV joint major in Climate and Sustainability, must be declared (CC, GS)
- Sustainable Development undergraduate major -or- minor, must be declared (CC, GS)
Collaborative Research Grant
The Collaborative Research Grant provides an opportunity for undergraduate and master’s students from the Climate School and partner programs to undertake paid research alongside renowned Columbia University faculty. This unique program 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 during fall and spring semesters.
Eligibility
Please note that as of Fall 2024, eligibility is limited to undergraduate and master’s students from the following Climate School and partner programs only:
- MA, Climate and Society (CS)
- MS, Climate (CS)
- MS, Climate Finance (CS)
- MS, Sustainability Management (SPS)
- MS, Sustainability Science (SPS)
- MPA, Environmental Science and Policy (SIPA)
- MPA, Development Practice (SIPA)
- DEES/SDEV joint major in Climate and Sustainability, must be declared (CC, GS)
- Sustainable Development undergraduate major -or- minor, must be declared (CC, GS)
Travel Grant Program
Through the travel grant program, the Climate School allocates funding to support travel by students matriculated in its own and partner degree programs who are engaged in research projects related to climate change, sustainable development, or the environment. This travel can be domestic or international and is for projects directly related to a student’s degree program at Columbia University. Students can apply as individuals or as small groups. This funding may not be used to support travel for symposia/conference attendance.
Eligibility
Please note that as of fall 2024, travel grant program eligibility is limited to students from the following Climate School and partner programs only:
- MA, Climate and Society (CS)
- MS, Climate (CS)
- MS, Climate Finance (CS)
- MS, Sustainability Management (SPS)
- MS, Sustainability Science (SPS)
- MPA, Environmental Science and Policy (SIPA)
- MPA, Development Practice (SIPA)
- PhD, Sustainable Development (SIPA, GSAS)
- PhD, Earth and Environmental Science (GSAS)
- DEES/SDEV joint major in Climate and Sustainability, must be declared (CC, GS)
- Sustainable Development undergraduate major -or- minor, must be declared (CC, GS)
Climate School Student Research Showcase
The Climate School is committed to supporting and showcasing student research in the areas of environmental and sustainable development. Every spring, the Climate School hosts the Student Research Showcase which provides an opportunity for students researching sustainability and environmental topics at Columbia to present their work.
Questions? Need more info? Contact Yana Zeltser.
All Ivy Career Fair
Each year, the eight Ivy League schools come together to produce a unique and inspiring career fair that provides companies unparalleled access to students who have the skills and knowledge to address the complex sustainability and climate challenges of our global economy.
Job Search Tools - Symplicity
The Climate School Job List contains employment opportunities in the fields of climate and sustainability. Students and alumni may upload resumes and cover letters, they may store job application documents and job searches, as well as receive notifications for jobs that match their employment profiles. Career planning and sustainability writing workshops are also available to students during the academic year.
Courses & Events
Each semester partner programs host talks by leading practitioners who discuss their work and their organizations, and who offer career advice. Networking events among students and alumni also provide a setting for learning about the job market from colleagues in the field.
Alumni
Students have access to an extensive alumni network consisting of graduates from all of its education programs. Throughout the year, the Earth Institute organizes alumni activities, including talks, networking events, and social gatherings. To learn more, please visit the alumni website email us at [email protected].
There are numerous student groups focused on climate and environmental sustainability, which are active across the Columbia University campus. Students organize panels, field trips, and volunteer events, and also work with administrators and facilities staff to impact campus sustainability. This list is currently being updated. Contact your program administrator with specific questions.
Individual programs and schools may offer a limited number of fellowships. Students are also encouraged to pursue external funding and fellowship opportunities, which exist within the private and public sectors. Opportunities can be found online and through personal/professional networks. Students should contact their program and financial aid office for more information.