Climate Change in North Carolina’s Majestic Blue Ridge Mountains

As a Kenan NASA Flight Fellow you will work with Dr. Taubman at Appalachian State University to enhance public awareness of climate science and NASA’s role in advancing our understanding of the Earth system.

Climate change is one of the most important issues facing our global community. Its implications have tremendous economic, political, and ecological health impacts. It is critical to educate students and to nurture a scientifically literate public equipped to address climate science issues.

You will broaden your knowledge of climate science principles, measurements and data analysis. Work with Dr. Taubman and his colleagues to align educational materials with the NC Standard Course of Study. These materials will help teachers and students better understand climate science in general and regional climates in particular as they engage in hands-on measurement activities and analyze climate data. The scientific activities you develop as part of this project will expose students to STEM principles and the specific skills required to perform basic climate-related research.

As part of your summer externship, you will play an essential role in introducing STEM principles to students through integrated climate science camps and activities at Appalachian State University. Targeting critical workforce needs, you will educate students about STEM careers and opportunities at NASA.