Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to multiple projects?
Yes, you can apply to all projects that interest you. However, you will not be allowed to work on more than one project. If you accept an offer from a project, your application to other projects will be withdrawn.
What are the exact dates of each project?
Unless indicated on the project page, the start/end dates for each project will be determined by the host and the student. The only constraint is that the project must be finished before the start of the fall semester.
Are there fixed times of the days I will need to work?
How and when you work will be something you will be determining with your host once accepted. In most cases, it will be flexible, but if you need to know prior to applying, contact the project host.
Is the duration of the project flexible?
Most of the projects are for 2-3 weeks, but this is something you can discuss with your host. The more important number is the total number of hours (e.g., 10 hours/week for 2 weeks would have 20 total hours), since the budget for the project is determined by that number.
How many positions are available for each project?
Typically, each project will host 1 to 3 students. There may be some exceptions such as the climate modelling project which accommodated 41 students.
I am a foreign/undocumented student. Can I still get paid?
As long as you are a Harvard student, we will be able to process payment.
Who is selecting the student(s)?
In almost all cases, the host will select the student(s) using some guidelines from the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee (e.g., preferences be given to incoming first years and rising sophomores).
How many applications are there for a typical project?
This varies greatly from project to project. The number of applicants is given on each project page.
How do I find out if I'm selected for the project?
In most cases, the host will contact you via e-mail. Once the student(s) have been confirmed (accepts the offer), we'll send out e-mails to all students to notify the decision. The name(s) of hired students will be listed for each project, so that is another way to find out (there may be a delay between when we post the name(s) and when you receive a notification).
How long would it take for me to find out whether I'm selected?
We try to get back to you in a week or so, but depending upon the number of applicants, we might need more time.
Can students from other institutions apply?
This program is only for Harvard undergraduate students.
When will a new project become available?
This depends on when a host can make a project available, so it will be intermittent. If you'd like to get a notice, please contact our Academic Program Manager, Chenoweth Moffatt, to be added to the EPS student e-mail list.
What kinds of research are conducted in EPS?
The Earth and Planetary Science department houses faculty and students conducting research across all STEM disciplines. Research is often interdisciplinary, including biology, chemistry, physics, applied math, computer science, engineering, and astronomy. Research crossing disciplinary boundaries to study the intersection of economics, public policy, social sciences, government, etc. with the geosciences is also encouraged. You can get a sense of research in the department by visiting https://eps.harvard.edu/pages/research and the linked websites for faculty and their research groups. To see current undergraduate research projects, visit https://eps.harvard.edu/undergraduate-research.
How do I learn more about EPS?
Please visit our web page, including the Undergraduate page. You can also contact the Academic Program Manager, Chenoweth Moffatt, or the Department Head Tutor, Miaki Ishii for more information. If you have indicated that you'd like to receive communications from us in your application, you will also be added to our undergraduate mailing list. If you haven't applied but would still like to be added to the list, please contact Chenoweth Moffatt.