Student application deadline:
Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 12 pm (noon).
Multiple Awards Available! 9 applications received as of 10/7/25.
Award amount: $6,000
Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium is a federally-funded workforce development program that supports students studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) at the University of Washington - Seattle (UW). Washington Space Grant opportunities are open and available to all STEM students. Our commitment stands to broaden and enhance access for all, including but not limited to first-generation college students, women, people of color, and those who wish to pursue careers in STEM fields.
The dissertation completion award is a one-time funding opportunity with the goal of supporting doctoral students who are in the final stages of completing their degree and dissertation. The award details and eligibility are outlined below.
Eligibility
- Must be U.S. Citizen.
- Be a UW doctoral student within the STEM field, and in the final year of your degree and completing a dissertation.
- Doctoral degree and dissertation must align with NASA’s Science Mission Directorate “NASA Science seeks to discover the secrets of the universe, search for life elsewhere, and protect and improve life on Earth and in space.”
- Have passed written (if required) and oral general exams.
- Be able to successfully defend the dissertation, complete departmental/program requirements and UW Graduate Office graduation requirements by June 12, 2026.
- Student must share verification form with faculty advisor or departmental academic advisor by Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025.
Program Expectations:
Engage with WA Space Grant community throughout the academic year.
Application Essay Questions:
- Lived Experience
Describe how your lived experience contributed to your academic journey, particularly your desire to pursue your PhD. (150-200 words)
Resource: See definition of lived experience - Academic Progress
This award is intended to support successful completion of your doctoral degree. Provide a timeline that outlines your academic progress that will ensure you're on track to graduating in June 2026. (150-200 words) - Public Service
How have you shared your doctoral work with community/ies outside of academia? (150-200 words) - Alignment with Science Mission
Explain how your research aligns with NASA's Science Mission Directorate to “discover the secrets of the universe, search for life elsewhere, and protect and improve life on Earth and in space.” (150-200 words)
Check Out Our Essay Tips
Questions? Email nasa@uw.edu.
For more information and/or to apply:
https://forms.gle/CjhmFNw27HdMgTMFA
Deadline: 10/15/2025 12:00 Pacific Time