2025 LEAP Summer Momentum Fellowship
Overview
LEAP’s Summer Momentum Fellowship welcomes doctoral students in data science interested in having a summer research immersion in climate data science, with the opportunity to apply their data science/machine learning skills in climate modeling and develop research interests in climate data science. Each fellow receives a summer stipend, travel support, and access to LEAP resources, such as LEAP Pangeo and workspace at Columbia University’s Innovation Hub.
Momentum Fellowship project leads work closely with Fellows throughout the summer on a well-defined, yet open-ended, machine learning research problem in climate data science. Project leads will also guide their Fellows to present their summer research at future LEAP events and other workshops/conferences.
Momentum Fellows are responsible for mentoring up to two (2) undergraduate students in the LEAP Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program. Each project will host up to two (2) undergraduate students paired with one (1) Fellow.
2025 Important Dates
- February 28 at 1:00pm EST: Summer Programs Open House Info Session
- March 15: Application deadline
- March 31: Application decision notification
- May 27 – August 1: On-Campus Research
Eligibility
LEAP invites applications from doctoral students in data science* (Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research, and related fields) interested in a summer research immersion in climate data science, applying their data science/machine learning skills in climate modeling, and developing research interests in climate data science. We invite all candidates to apply.
Fellows are expected to work for 10 weeks (May 27 – August 1, 2025) and 25 hours on average each week. Each Fellow will be awarded an $8,000 summer stipend to support their research and professional growth, receive travel support, and have access to LEAP resources. Additional housing support may be available.
To apply, please complete the below Application by 11:59 p.m. (EDT) on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Applications are now closed.
*Applicants must be enrolled in a data science Ph.D. program in the United States to be eligible.
Application
How do I apply? And what are the deadlines?
- The Application is available online.
- Applications are due by March 15, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
- Letters of recommendation should be submitted via email to leap@columbia.edu by March 15, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
If selected, when will I be notified?
Select candidates will be notified to schedule an interview with relevant project leads before an official offer is extended by the end of March 2025.
Program
The 10-week Research Experience (June 9 – August 1) will be led by the following Project Leads/Mentors:
Logistics
Where will the 2025 Momentum Fellowship be located?
The 2025 Momentum Fellowship will be held at Columbia University’s Morningside Heights campus and Manhattanville Campus; some projects may be based in Boulder, CO. LEAP’s office is located in the Columbia Innovation Hub (2276 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10027).
Are there activities, workshops, and other events planned for the summer?
YES! LEAP will support summer researchers in their professional development goals. The 2025 summer program will connect students with professional development skills, research seminars, social events, and more. LEAP will also provide additional learning and enrichment opportunities throughout the summer.
Funding
How much is the stipend?
The program offers a competitive stipend of $8,000 for the duration of the program. Those enrolled in a Columbia University program will receive a salary equivalent to $8,000.
Is my Momentum Fellowship stipend taxable?
1099 forms will be issued to students. Please visit the 1099 tax withholding page for more information. You should save documentation of the direct deposit of your stipend.
Will travel be provided?
A travel stipend will be available for travel related to the project.
Will housing be provided? Are housing costs covered?
Housing support may be available.
