Indigenous STEM Students Set to Soar with NASA Internships

Monash University’s National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA) is calling for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM students to apply for a NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) internship, following a significant funding boost.

The Australian Space Agency has awarded NISA nearly half a million dollars, ensuring the program can send five Indigenous students to NASA JPL in Pasadena, California, annually until 2027.

The internships, which run for 10 weeks, are open to undergraduate and postgraduate students in Australia who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and are studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

Preparing Future Space Leaders

The selected students will undertake a “Space Boot Camp” at Monash University’s Clayton campus before their placements. The boot camp will cover NASA’s past and current space exploration missions and include training in aerodynamics, robotics, astrophysics, planetary science, engineering, computer science, and earth sciences.

Former NASA JPL Leader Lieutenant Larry James will mentor participants, equipping them with foundational knowledge for their time at JPL.

Professor Christopher Lawrence, a Whadjak/Ballardong Noongar man and Associate Dean (Indigenous) at Monash’s Faculty of IT, leads the NISA program. He described the funding as pivotal for nurturing Indigenous STEM talent.

“This uplift for NISA will fuel the dreams of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, empowering them to lead in space research and exploration,” Professor Lawrence said.

“We’re excited to continue this initiative with the Australian Space Agency’s support, ensuring the program’s growth and impact.”

Building Australian Space Capabilities

Australian Space Agency Head, Enrico Palermo, emphasised the value of the program for developing Australia’s space sector.

“I’ve seen how NISA transforms the lives of its interns. It gives Indigenous STEM talent the chance to learn from the best and bring that expertise back to Australia’s space and technology sectors,” Palermo said.

He also highlighted the program’s alignment with the Government’s focus on advancing a diverse STEM workforce and integrating Indigenous knowledge systems into national science and research priorities.

Impact of Past Internships

Since its inception, NISA has facilitated internships at NASA JPL for 14 First Nations students. Participants have worked alongside leading researchers, engineers, and technologists, gaining skills that continue to shape their careers.

Carl Goodwin, a proud Gamilaroi man and Master of Artificial Intelligence student at Monash University, was part of the 2024 cohort. During his internship, he worked with NASA’s Earth Sciences team, contributing to predictive models for harmful algal blooms.

“These models are critical for preserving the health of water systems used for drinking, recreation, and ecosystems,” Goodwin said.

He encouraged other Indigenous STEM students to apply, acknowledging the initial challenges.

“It might seem daunting to travel so far and work with some of the most talented scientists, but everyone at JPL was supportive and encouraging,” he said. “It’s an amazing experience that not only develops your skills but also opens doors to opportunities you wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Monash University computer science graduate and proud Ngarrindjeri man, Linden Beaumont, part of the 2023 cohort, also reflected on the program’s benefits.

During his internship, Beaumont worked on coding for a new atmosphere analysis system on the International Space Station. Building on this experience, he secured a role as a software developer and data analyst for a Netherlands-based noise monitoring company.

“I’m now using artificial intelligence to analyse noise levels around airports, a skill I refined during my internship at JPL,” Beaumont said.

Expanding Horizons

Looking ahead, NISA aims to expand the program to include placements in the United Kingdom and Europe, broadening the opportunities for Indigenous STEM students.

Professor Lawrence encouraged eligible students to apply for the 2025 internship. “This program is about more than just an internship. It’s about creating opportunities, inspiring future leaders, and showcasing the immense potential of Indigenous talent in the space sector.”

Applications for the 2025 NASA JPL internship are now open. For more information or to apply, visit: Monash University NISA.

Last Updated on November 26, 2024 by Nick Ross