SPARK

1. What is the CfA Postbaccalaureate Program in Astrophysics?

This initiative offers recent graduates a pathway to develop critical research skills, strengthen their academic foundations, and cultivate valuable mentoring relationships. By welcoming participants from a broad range of academic settings this program will foster the next generation of leaders in the field. Over the course of a one-year immersive experience, participants will engage closely with a CfA mentor on a research project, benefitting from training in data analysis, programming, numerical modeling, and scientific communication. This hands-on experience will assist participants in determining whether graduate school is the right path while also enhancing their prospects for admission into advanced degree programs.

2. Who is eligible to apply for this program?

Anyone with a bachelor’s degree equivalent who wishes to gain experience with astronomy research with an ultimate goal of applying to a graduate program in astronomy.

3. When is the application deadline?

Applications received by April 15th will be given full consideration.

4. What are the main benefits of participating in the program?

To gain valuable research experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

5. How long does the program last?

Initial appointments will be made for 6 months with a 3-6 month extension pending satisfactory performance.

6. When will the program begin?

Successful applicants will begin on September 1 with a recommended 9-12 month appointment, depending on personal situations.

7. Where is the program located?

At the Center for Astrophysics, located on the Harvard University campus.

8. How do I apply for the program?

Using the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointments (SOLAA) portal. Create an account if you haven't already, log in, and search for SPARK. The posting is not currently available within SOLAA, check back soon for updates.

9. What are the application requirements?

To apply you will need to provide a personal statement of no more than two pages describing what has inspired you to apply for this program, unofficial transcripts from your college, and a curriculum vitae.

10. Do I need prior research experience to be considered?

No. We especially encourage applications from students who wish to pursue a graduate degree in astronomy but have limited previous experience with astronomy research.

11. What should be included in my personal statement?

Your personal statement should describe what you expect to get out of this program and how this program will impact your future career.

12. Are letters of recommendation required?

One letter of recommendation from a person familiar with your academic history is required. You may submit up to three letters of recommendation if you desire.

13. What kind of research will participants be involved in?

The CfA is one of the largest astronomy research centers in the world. Astronomers at the CfA engage in research covering nearly every area of astronomy. Attempts will be made to match successful applicants with an area of research that interests them although specific research programs will be limited to those researchers with available funding.

14. Will participants have the opportunity to publish research papers?

Yes. Participants are encouraged to publish a research paper describing their findings in a peer-reviewed journal. Funding will be provided to cover page charges.

15. How are mentors assigned to students?

The program coordinator will match selected participants with mentors based on areas of interest and available projects.

16. Are there opportunities for professional development and networking?

Yes. Participants will be located at the Center for Astrophysics and exposed to the vibrant research community here - one of the largest astronomy research centers in the world. SPARK participants will be able to attend any number of weekly talk series (currently more than 10) and interact with CfA employees and visitors alike. We will also organize networking events where SPARK participants will be able to meet other researchers.

17. What skills will I gain from this program?

SPARK participants will be performing scientific research as part of a larger research group. As part of this research participants will learn how to conduct research in a professional environment and develop professional communication skills.

18. How does this program help with graduate school applications?

One of the most important aspects of a successful graduate school application is a demonstrated track record of research experience. The SPARK program will give participants this experience along with new professional connections.

19. Is this a paid program?

Yes. Successful applicants will be given a stipend equivalent to the GS 4-1 pay grade for the Boston locality.

20. Is housing provided or do participants need to arrange their own accommodation?

Participants will need to arrange and pay for their own accommodations.

21. Are travel expenses covered?

Funds will be available to cover travel expenses to present research at the American Astronomical Society winter meeting.

22. Are international students eligible to apply?

Yes. We welcome international applicants.

Please go to the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointments (SOLAA) portal, create an account if you do not already have one, log in, and search for SPARK to begin your application. The posting is not currently available within SOLAA - please check back soon for updates. Applications received by April 15th will be given full consideration.

Please contact us at spark@cfa.harvard.edu for additional information or if you have any questions.