FAQs
Q: Who is eligible?
A: The CASC culture is to advance diversity, inclusion, and empowerment for traditionally underrepresented communities. This opportunity is open to graduate students at Climate Adaptation Science Center Consortium Institutions and minority-serving institutions such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal College and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions.
Q: How do I know if I am affiliated with a CASC consortium institution?
A: CASC consortium institutions are listed by region here.
Q: Do I have to be a student for the entire fellowship year?
A: Yes, however justified exceptions will be made in special cases.
Q: What are the requirements for the CASC residency experience?
A: This can be flexible. In recent years, most fellows have opportunistically traveled to in-person CASC events or meetings but have not completed a traditional 2-month residency. The fellowship includes funding that can be used for travel, housing, etc.
Q: Do I need to identify a CASC mentor prior to submitting my Statement of Interest?
A: No. Should you be selected to advance to the full proposal state of the application process, you will be matched to a potential mentor based on your proposed project and CASC mentor expertise.
Q: How long is the fellowship?
A: The fellowship experience will last one year, with a flexible start date (starting no sooner than May of the funded year). This includes a 2-month period (typically summer) during which the fellow will be expected to work on location at a CASC with their CASC mentor.
Q: When do applications open?
A: Applications to submit a Statement of Interest typically open on or around December 1 each year.
Q: What will I need to include in my application?
A: You can find detailed information about the application materials and evaluation criteria here. In short, to submit a Statement of Interest you will need to include:
- 1-page cover letter
- 1-page pre-proposal
- CV + unofficial transcripts
- Recommendation letter from university mentor
Q: How do I know if my research topic is a good fit for this fellowship?
A: Applicants are encouraged to contact the Review Committee to discuss their projects prior to submitting a SOI.
Q: Can I apply for both the Science to Action Fellowship and the Diverse Knowledge Systems for Climate Adaptation Fellowship at the same time?
A: These two fellowships follow a similar timeline, and yes, students may apply for both. Students who choose to do so are encouraged to carefully review the evaluation rubrics of each fellowship and appropriately tailor their applications.
Informational Webinar
This informational webinar covers basic information and frequently asked questions related to the Science to Action Fellowship and the Diverse Knowledge Systems Fellowship.
Back to the Diverse Knowledge Systems Fellowship homepage>>
