Exciting news from MN Associates, Inc.! We will serve as the external evaluator for the University of Maryland, Baltimore County’s new NSF-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates site, EXPLORE (EXPeriments in Earth and Atmospheric Science: Learning Opportunities and Research Experience).
Why This Matters
Picture this: 30 undergraduates getting their hands on cutting-edge satellite data, launching drones to measure atmospheric profiles, analyzing particle properties in NASA-affiliated labs, and working alongside scientists who design instruments for space missions. This isn’t a far-off dream—it’s what EXPLORE delivers over the next three years. From detecting dust storms and wildfire smoke plumes using machine learning to calibrating multi-angle polarimeters aboard satellites, these students will tackle real-world atmospheric challenges. They’ll visit NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, conduct field measurements, and present their findings alongside graduate researchers.
Our Role: Making Excellence Measurable
We don’t just collect data—we tell the story of transformation. Through targeted surveys, in-depth interviews, and longitudinal tracking, we’ll measure what matters: How do mentor relationships evolve? What sparks a student’s decision to pursue graduate school? Which program elements create those “aha” moments that change career trajectories? Our evaluation will capture both the numbers and the narratives, ensuring EXPLORE not only achieves its goals but continually refines its approach based on real evidence.
The Bigger Picture
REU programs are talent pipelines for the scientific workforce. As Earth science faces increasingly complex questions about our atmosphere and planet, programs like EXPLORE ensure the next generation is ready to provide answers.
Kudos to Principal Investigator Dr. Adriana Rocha Lima and the UMBC team. Let’s make some science happen.
