Research Experience Programs
Explore the opportunities CEEE offers to students of all backgrounds to engage in scientific inquiry and exploration through research experience programs.
The Research Experience for Community College Students (RECCS) provides paid summer research opportunities in environmental and geosciences for Colorado community college students; Girls* on Rock is a free wilderness science program for high school girls aged 16-17 that combines art, rock climbing, and scientific field studies; and the NNA Research Experience for Undergraduate Students (REU) focuses on Arctic science and climate change for Alaska community college and university students.
Together, these programs aim to provide diverse opportunities in STEM for students who might not otherwise have access to such experiences.
The Research Experience for Community College Students (RECCS) is a paid summer program that offers Colorado community college students a hands-on opportunity to conduct independent research in environmental or geosciences at CU Boulder. Over nine weeks, students work with scientists in field or lab settings, gaining research and communication skills. Participants receive a $650 weekly stipend and present their findings at a local science symposium, all while building confidence to pursue four-year STEM degrees.
Application Information
Students from rural areas are particularly encouraged to apply. We seek applicants from a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds.
Applicant Requirements:
- Be a US Citizen or a Permanent Resident
- Attending a Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, or Wyoming Community College (can graduate in the spring semester and plan to attend a 4-year college)
- Have completed at least two science classes. College algebra is also recommended.
- Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or provide a reasonable explanation for a lower GPA
- Not have a BA or BS even in a completely unrelated discipline
- Be willing to make a full-time commitment for 9 weeks (40 hours per week)
Applications for the summer 2025 program will open in November - interested students can sign up for our 2025 Interest form here.
Contact RECCS
Email us at reccs@colorado.edu or sign up for the RECCS Connects Newsletter for more information.
Girls* on Rock is a free wilderness science program for high school girls* aged 16-17, offering 12 days of exploration in the Rocky Mountains. Participants engage in activities like rock climbing, scientific field studies, and art, guided by female scientists, artists, and mountain guides. The program fosters critical thinking, encourages scientific inquiry, and builds self-confidence through hands-on experiments and physical challenges. Focused on diversity, the program aims to inspire lifelong advocates for Earth science, regardless of future career paths, and is open to those who may not have access to such opportunities.
*We welcome cisgender girls, transgender, agender, Two Spirit, nonbinary, intersex, genderqueer youth and those who demonstrate allyship with these communities to apply.
Application Information
Are you curious to know what forces shape our mountains? Do you want to understand how tiny plants can thrive under the harsh conditions found at high elevations? Have you always wanted to climb a real summit in the Rocky Mountains? Girls* on Rock will take you into Colorado’s breathtaking mountains to explore towering rock walls, deep-blue lakes, and lush alpine meadows in the heart of the Rockies!
Girls* on Rock is looking for residents of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico who are 16 to 17 years old on June 1 of the expedition year and are interested in being a part of a supportive community. Please review our Essential Eligibility, which details the minimum requirements to participate in our programs.
The Girls* on Rock 2025 expedition applications will open in Fall 2024 - sign up to receive updates on the program and application for the 2025 season here.
Contact Girls* on Rock
Email us at gor@colorado.edu to learn about volunteer opportunities and other ways to support Girls* On Rock.
The NNA Research Experience for Undergraduate Students (REU) is a paid virtual program for Alaska community college and university students focused on Arctic science and climate change. Over the spring semester, students conduct 120 hours of independent research centered on Arctic community priorities, guided by mentors studying the local impacts of climate change. Participants receive a $1,800 stipend and a graduate credit from the University of Colorado Boulder, and they present their findings at a virtual science showcase.
Application Information
The NNA Research Experience for Undergraduate Students (REU) is a paid virtual research experience program open to all Alaska community college and university students.
Applications are not currently being accepted - look for the 2025 research experience application in Fall 2024.
Contact NNA-CO
Email us at contact@nna-co.org or sign up for the NNA Community Newsletter for more information.
