History
In 2018, Lew Levy sponsored an annual award for the UC Berkeley SETI Research Center (BSRC) to support travel and entrance costs for undergraduates interested in presenting research at astronomy conferences. In 2019, Lew established SETI Forward as a natural extension of the BSRC award. Then in 2021, the awards merged, and SETI Forward's reach has now expanded to include any student studying SETI or astrobiology at an accredited institution.
FAQ
What is SETI Forward?
An endowment fund established to support undergraduate student research activities, with the specific aim of attracting and nurturing new SETI research talent. This includes students focused on the search for intelligent life beyond Earth as well as the origins, evolution, distribution, and future of life beyond Earth (astrobiology).
What is the SETI Forward Award?
The award is a stipend for undergraduate student intern(s), or undergraduate student(s), to use to advance a career in SETI. Example uses of the stipend include travel expenses to present their work at a conference, to collaborate with other researchers, or scholarships for research opportunities.
Why SETI and astrobiology?
Nearly every star hosts at least one planet in our galaxy. We haven’t found evidence of life on any planet beyond Earth – yet. New telescopes, new technologies, and new programs make this an exciting time to be a part of SETI and astrobiology. Ultimately, however, it is people that conduct science. Many undergraduates studying SETI and astrobiology pivot to other fields, leaving the field who few career scientists. SETI Forward incentivizes students to remain in the SETI and astrobiology careers by empowering them to build relationships and pursue research opportunities.
What is the vision for SETI Forward?
To expand the awareness of the award and target applications from more institutions. In addition, the long-term vision includes expanding the endowment fund, exploring other awards, and eventually supporting student research internship(s) at an astrobiology and/or SETI organization.
How is the awardee(s) selected?
A diverse panel with varied representation reviews the applications to provide a fair and objective award.
How to apply?
An application is available here. A reference letter from a mentor for the current internship certifying the good standing of the intern is required.
Who is eligible?
Undergraduates at accepted institutions participating in a mentored internship. You can view the full eligibility criteria here.