Overview

The NASA FINESST 2025 funding opportunity provides Master’s and PhD students in Earth and space science with direct support to lead their own independent research projects. It is designed to empower the next generation of researchers to develop innovative scientific ideas that advance understanding of Earth systems, space environments, and planetary science.

Eligibility

FINESST is open to students enrolled in Master’s or PhD programs at accredited institutions. Applicants must be graduate students at the time of submission and submit proposals through their academic institution. Each proposal must be student-led, with faculty advisors providing guidance but not serving as principal investigators. International students enrolled at eligible U.S. institutions may also be able to participate, depending on institutional eligibility.

Benefits

Selected applicants receive funding to support their research activities over multiple years, including data collection, analysis, fieldwork, and computational modeling. Participants gain independent research leadership skills, strengthen their academic profiles, and build connections within NASA’s scientific community, enhancing competitiveness for future fellowships, postdoctoral positions, and research careers.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted electronically through NASA’s NSPIRES system. Students must prepare a detailed research proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes, along with a supporting budget and institutional documentation.

Deadline

The submission deadline for FINESST 2025 is July 14, 2026. Office hours for applicants seeking clarification will be held by NASA Earth Science teams on June 23 and June 24 (1–2 PM ET).