Aerospace Industry Trek, Greater Houston Area
April 1st – 4th, 2024
Application Deadline: February 22nd, 5 PM
Are you interested in applications of your basic research topics in the aerospace industry?
Did you know that space research involves diverse disciplines, including (but not limited to):
- Material science and characterization
- Polymer physics
- Organometallic catalysis
- Synthetic chemistry
- Biomaterial assembly and dynamics
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Information technology
- Software development & systems analysis
- Drug development and pharmaceutical synthesis
- Neurodevelopment
- Microbial science
- Ecology
- Atmospheric composition and dynamics
- Water resources
- Earth observation
- Renewable energy
- …just to name a few
PhDs in diverse STEM disciplines play essential roles at the forefront of innovation in aerospace research, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space exploration, earth observation, environmental studies, material sciences, communications, and emergent technologies. The myCHOICE Aerospace Industry Trek is designed for late-stage trainees who are interested in the relevance of their research training in space science. The Trek will provide intimate introductions to a wide variety of companies in the Clear Springs, TX innovation hub, all operating at the cutting-edge of advancements in both commercial space ventures and NASA-led initiatives. Through site visits and networking opportunities, Trek participants will set the stage for launching their careers in the aerospace industry.
Why should you participate in this trek?
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Learn about the diversity of research topics and roles for PhDs in the commercial aerospace ecosystem.
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Network with Houston-area UChicago alumni and professionals.
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Discover job opportunities and life in the greater Houston Area.
Developing itinerary of site visits
- Rhodium Scientific
- Intuitive Machines
- Aegis Aerospace
- Nanoracks
- Axiom Space
- Leidos
- Space Center Houston
- and networking events with fellows, alumni and local professionals
Requirements & Expectations of myCHOICE Trek Participants
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Graduate students, postdoctoral scientists, or alumni (within 1 year of departing the University of Chicago) from the BSD, PSD, or PME are welcome to apply. Preference will be given to individuals in their 5th year of training and beyond. Applications from 1st year graduate students will not be considered. Applications from 2nd, 3rd year and 4th year graduate students will be considered, if capacity allows.
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Complete the myCHOICE Trek Application, including a personal statement, a resume, and either two mock covers for positions at companies on the trek site visit list OR a list of 5 jobs that interest you at the companies on the trek site visit list.
- You will be expected to attend all scheduled site visits and events during the trek, with no exceptions.
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Upon completion of the Trek, reflect on your experience in a short statement (< 500 words).
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myCHOICE will cover the airfare, hotel accommodations, some meals, and local trek-related travel. The trainee is responsible for miscellaneous meals and airport transfers.