Caltech Opens Applications for High School Earthquake Research Fellowship

Applications are now open until April 1 for Caltech’s Earthquake Fellows Program, offering students from nearby schools hands-on experience in seismological research and instrumentation.

The fellowship, running from May through August 2025, will provide selected sophomores and juniors with comprehensive training in earthquake science, data analysis, and research methodology.

Participants will construct their own Raspberry Shake seismometers to install at home or school, collecting data for analysis under the guidance of graduate students and post-doctoral mentors.

The program includes three Saturday sessions in spring, followed by 19 weekdays of summer sessions, and culminating in two end-of-summer Saturday presentations focused on scientific communication.

Fellows will receive loaned computers, transportation for field experiences, and keep their self-built seismometers after completing the approximately 130-hour program at the Pasadena campus.

The program will expose students to Los Angeles geology through field trips, while developing their public speaking skills and preparing them for poster presentations.

Successful applicants must have completed three years of high school mathematics or Integrated Math III, though program coordinators emphasize that being a science expert is not required.

“Students don’t need to be science experts, they just have to be interested in learning,” the program announcement said.

The fellowship combines presentations, student discussions, field trips, and project work, with transportation assistance available for students demonstrating financial need on a case-by-case basis.

Students will also receive guidance on college applications and financial aid processes during the program.

For more information, visit https://www.seismolab.caltech.edu/about/outreach-and-internships/earthquake-fellows.

Students and parents can also direct questions to Ariel Raymond at araymond@caltech.edu.