Penn Climate Student Cohort
Join an interdisciplinary cohort of undergraduate and graduate students working alongside Penn faculty and Penn Climate staff on real-world climate projects.
The Penn Climate Student Cohort is a paid, year-long assistantship program designed to provide meaningful, hands-on experience in climate research, communications, data analysis, and applied climate solutions. Student Assistants contribute to defined climate-focused projects while building professional skills, expanding their networks, and collaborating with faculty, staff, and peers from across the University. Throughout the academic year, assistants also participate in monthly cohort meetings, professional development opportunities, and a final showcase highlighting their work.
Program Information
Who Can Apply?
Current undergraduate and graduate students from all Penn schools are encouraged to apply.
Why Apply?
As a Penn Climate Student Assistant, you will:
- Gain hands-on experience working on climate-related projects
- Work directly with faculty mentors and Penn Climate staff
- Build research, communication, and professional skills
- Join an interdisciplinary community of climate-focused students
- Expand your network across Penn
- Present your work during the end-of-year showcase
- Receive paid experience while advancing your academic and career goals
Program Details
Applications for our assistantships have closed. The process for the 2027-28 academic year will kick off in the Spring.
Information for Applicants
Applications
Applications for the Penn Climate Student Cohort have closed for the 2026-27 academic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
The Penn Climate Student Cohort is open to undergraduate and graduate students from all Penn schools. Students from a wide range of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Can I apply for more than one assistantship?
Yes! If more than one assistantship aligns with your interests and experience, you’re welcome to indicate multiple positions in your statement of interest. In your application, please explain why you’re interested in each opportunity and how your background aligns with the role(s).
How are students matched with assistantships?
Students should indicate the assistantship(s) that best align with their interests, academic background, and skills in their statement of interest. Applications will be reviewed holistically, and selected students will be matched with assistantships based on their qualifications and fit for each opportunity.
What is the time commitment?
Research, Data, Climate Solutions Hub, and Climate-Agriculture Assistantships require approximately 5 hours per week. Communications Assistantships require approximately 10 hours per week.
What does participation in the Penn Climate Student Cohort involve?
In addition to working on your assigned project with your faculty member(s), Student Assistants will participate in monthly cohort meetings, professional development opportunities, and an end-of-year showcase where students present their work. The cohort is designed to help students build skills, expand their professional networks, and connect with peers and faculty working on climate-related topics across Penn.
How will I work with my faculty or staff mentor?
Student Assistants will work closely with their assigned faculty or staff mentor throughout the academic year. Each project is different, but mentors will provide guidance, feedback, and support while students contribute to clearly defined project goals and deliverables.
Is this a paid opportunity?
Yes. All Student Assistant positions are paid. Compensation varies based on undergraduate or graduate student status and ranges from $17-25 dollars per hour.
Do I need prior climate experience to apply?
Not necessarily. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to apply. While some assistantships require specific technical skills (such as GIS, R, Python, or Stata), many are open to students with a demonstrated interest in climate-related issues and relevant coursework, research, or professional experience. We encourage you to review each assistantship description carefully to determine which opportunities best match your background and reach out if you have any questions.