Who is eligible for the PAREDS program?
PAREDS is open to all Charles Drew Science Scholars who intend to major in physics or astrophysics. Early in each calendar year, we try to email all known astro/physics majors in the Drew program about PAREDS, but feel free to reach out to us if you're interested and want to know more!
What does the PAREDS program offer me?
In short, a paid, full-time summer research experience working with world-class researchers in astronomy or physics. We will survey you on your research interests and match you with a research mentor, who will then work closely with you over the course of the summer to carry out original research. In addition, students in the PAREDS program meet weekly throughout the summer (with free lunch) to grow as a community, practice skill-building, and learn about possible post-undergraduate paths. We will be building a diverse, vibrant community of young (astro)physicists looking to make the world a better place!
As a PAREDS student, what is expected of me?
We expect PAREDS students to be available to work full-time for at least 10 weeks over the summer. In order for you to immerse yourself in research and really get a sense of what scientific research is like, we ask that you do not take on other summer jobs or take summer classes. If the student is working in person (not remotely) we ask that they work on campus regularly. We expect PAREDS students to be active, engaged members of their research labs and the PAREDS learning community. At the end of the summer, all PAREDS students present a 10-minute talk at our PAREDS symposium, attended by members of the Physics & Astronomy Department and other MSU community members.
What are PAREDS students paid?
In summer 2025, our suggested pay rate will be $17.50/hr. Assuming that a student works full-time (40 hours a week) for a 10-week summer, the total summer stipend comes to $7000.00.
Do you provide PAREDS students housing?
We can not offer room and board to every PAREDS student, but we do not want that to limit your participation in the summer experience. You might consider applying to be an RA over the summer, or many affordable sublets are available over the summer. Please reach out to us if you require additional housing support over the summer.
Do I have to stay on campus for the summer?
We believe you'll get the most out of your summer if you are present on campus at MSU, which will allow you to immerse yourself in research while getting to know your advisor well and building up your network. Therefore, all PAREDS research experiences are in-person on campus.
What other benefits of PAREDS are there?
You'll get to know and build a like-minded community with the other PAREDS students through cohort-building activities. You'll build your professional skills by attending workshops (you also get to benefit from the programming provided to the MSU Physics & Astronomy Research Experiences for Undergrads program). You'll expand your network by connecting with faculty, postdocs, and grad students. You'll get a better sense of what you would like to do after MSU by exploring what it is like to do cutting-edge research!