Description

The 2025 Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Program at LEAP (Learning the Earth with Artificial Intelligence + Physics) offers summer undergraduate research experiences on synergistic innovations in data science and climate science. This 10-week Program hosts undergraduate researchers and offers a wide array of enrichment learning and networking opportunities.

LEAP is committed to building a vibrant research community at the intersection of climate science, data science, and real-world impact. All students will be supported by a team of researchers and graduate student mentors. We want our students to succeed and learn what it takes to make a larger impact on the world via STEM research. Upon completion of the Program, students may have the opportunity to continue their research or present their findings at academic conferences.

Read more about 2025 Summer Research Projects.

LEAP's 2025 REU Program — including enrichment and social activities — will be held at Columbia University’s Morningside Heights and Manhattanville Campuses; some projects may also be based in Boulder, CO. LEAP’s office is located in the Columbia Engineering Innovation Hub (2276 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10027). 

REU students will receive a stipend of $700 / week for the duration of the Program.
Travel stipend is available for eligible students.
Students who require summer housing will be housed on Columbia University’s Morningside Heights campus for the duration of the program. 

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I have no programming or coding experience. Can I still APPLY?
YES! All admitted students will receive guidance regarding how to best prepare for the research experience through self-guided learning materials.

• Keep in mind: the REU experience begins with the Momentum Bootcamp, which will equip students with the skills necessary to complete the research experience.
• To get the most out of the REU Program, you should have some prior experience with or knowledge of coding, but all students are encouraged to APPLY, regardless of coding and/or programming background.
• And please note: this is a learning experience and you are not expected to produce a research paper or “solve” a problem. Research takes time, and this is only one part of the journey!
• The students who will benefit most from the REU Program are interested in learning about how data science skills can be applied toward climate science research. 

Are there resources that may help me evaluate my experience and understanding of some basic concepts before I apply?
YES! In addition to undergraduate coursework and the Momentum Bootcamp, you may also take advantage of supplemental resources to gain or hone your skills and prepare for the REU Program, such as:

• An Introduction to Earth and Environmental Data Science (Ryan Abernathey, et al.)
• Intro to Computer Science – Python (Khan Academy)
• Learn Python (CodeAcademy)
• Python Data Science Handbook (Jake VanderPlas)

Requirements

What are the APPLICATION requirements?
We invite applications from students who will be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior in Fall 2025 at a college/university in the United States. (We are only able to offer admission to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.) We invite all students to apply. Former LEAP REU participants are also welcome to apply.

• ONLINE APPLICATION
• Résumé/CV
• Academic transcript (unofficial transcripts are acceptable)
• Statement of interest (500 words about your research goals this summer and your future plans)
• Letter of recommendation from an academic professor with whom you have studied at your home institution
• Please be sure to read each project description carefully before submitting the application.

How do I apply? And what are the deadlines?

• The Application is available online.
• Applications are due by Sunday, March 15, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
• Letters of recommendation should be submitted via email to [email protected] by Sunday, March 15, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
• We anticipate notifying applicants with a decision at the end of March 2025.