OCEAN CORE Academy Application 2026

OCEAN CORE Academy Student Application 2026
The 2026 OCEAN CORE (Ocean Core Exploration As New investigators Community Outreach and Research Experiences) Academy (June 25 - July 2, 2026) is being offered by the U.S. Science Support Program office (USSSP). This is meant to be an extension and land-based twist on our previous JR Academy program.

During OCEAN CORE Academy, students will participate in a wide range of Earth and ocean science activities, create and implement small research projects related to ocean floor cores/data, use state-of-the-art research equipment, learn science communication skills and be exposed to a variety of careers, while working at and living nearby to the Gulf Coast Repository in College Station, TX.

Eligibility:
- Must be an undergraduate and at least 18 years old and enrolled in or accepted to a U.S. accredited institution of higher learning.
Student Selection Criteria:
- Motivation, interest and enthusiasm for ocean science, geology and science communication
- Ability to benefit from and contribute to the OCEAN CORE Academy experience
- From a wide range of backgrounds and experience
DEADLINE: April 19, 2026 (but reach out to us if you need an extension)

Components of a completed application include:
- this application form
- a letter of recommendation from a current or former professor/teacher or employer
- a copy of your most recent transcript (can be unofficial), uploaded below
If you are selected, travel and expenses to/from College Station will be provided, as well as room and board during the program. You will need to have a little bit of funds to pay for local transportation/taxis/shuttles; you will be reimbursed for these after the Academy.

Questions can be directed to Sharon Cooper: scooper@ldeo.columbia.edu
Full Name (as it appears on a government-issued ID)*

First NameMiddle NameLast Name
Preferred Name

First NameLast Name
Home Address*

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip CodeCountry
School Address

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code
E-mail*
example@example.com
Birthdate:*
Phone Number*
Format: (000) 000-0000.
MaleFemaleOther
College/University currently attending or accepted to attend:*
Expected graduation date:*

MonthDayYear
Date
Demographic questions (optional)
YesNo
WhiteAfrican American or BlackNative Hawaiian or Other Pacific IslanderAmerican Indian or Alaska NativeAsian-AmericanOther
YesNo
YesNo
YesNo
YesNo
If yes, which one(s)?
YesNo
YesNo
If you answered yes to being enrolled in a 2-year institution, skip down to Question AA.
YesNo
YesNo
YesNo
F. If you transferred from a 2-year institution, when did you do so?
science degreenon-science degreescience advanced degree (e.g., Masters, PhD, MD)non-science advanced degreeOther
What is your intended major? (If undeclared, just give us your best guess)*
If you plan to seek a minor, in what field?
What is your ultimate career goal at this point?*
If you have prior travel experience, list some of the locations you have visited. If not, leave blank - that's ok, too.
If you have any prior research or laboratory experience, tell us about it! If not, that's ok too!
Other: Is there anything special that you would like the review committee to know about your background?
video production/editingsoftware developmentvisual artswritingsocial mediamusicdanceaudioOther
Definitely notProbably notNot sureProbably yesDefinitely yes
In just a couple of sentences, please describe your interests in science communication! (e.g., presenting at public events, conferences, creating videos or other visual infographics, and other creative ways to share science with the public.)*
Personal Statement: Briefly (3-4 paragraphs) describe your career goals, why you are interested in this program and what you hope to gain from it.*
How did you find out about the OCEAN CORE Academy opportunity?*
If accepted as a part of OCEAN CORE Academy, you will be expected to:
- take part in 2 pre-Academy webinars and at least 1 post-Academy webinar
- actively participate with a positive attitude during the duration of the program, which will include evenings
- follow all program drug, alcohol and safety policies
- create and implement a post-Academy science communication project
- keep your contact info current so we can follow-up with surveys about your experiences down the road
Typing your full name here indicates your commitment to these responsibilities and certifies that the information given in this application is complete and accurate:*
Upload your most recent official or unofficial transcript.*

Cancelof
Provide the name and contact information for the person (professor, academic advisor, employer, etc) who is writing a recommendation letter for you. You should discuss this application with this person beforehand. Your recommender can access the form here. NB: It's your responsibility to provide this link to them - it does not go automatically.
Name of person submitting recommendation letter:*
Email*
example@example.com
Phone Number*
Format: (000) 000-0000.
professoradvisor or counseloremployerOther
YesNo
Should be Empty:

OCEAN CORE Academy Student Application 2026

Demographic questions (optional)