University Research Internships

The Hawai‘i Space Grant Consortium expands educational opportunities for University of Hawai‘i System undergraduates by awarding University Research Internships, HSGC URI, (formerly known as Fellowship and Traineeship Program) in fields that are relevant to NASA's goals. Two levels of support, research or trainee, are offered depending on the skill, knowledge level, and time commitment of the student. We support the national Space Grant agenda to help prepare the future generation of space scientists and engineers, and to increase the understanding and development of space. U.S. citizenship is required for consideration.

Fields relevant to NASA's goals are defined in its current Strategic Plan. These fields are mainly those in science, technology, and education that are focused on understanding the Earth, exploring the Solar System and the universe beyond, creating more secure, efficient, and environmentally friendly air transportation systems, inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and engaging the public in shaping and sharing the experience of exploration and discovery.

All full-time undergraduates enrolled at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Hilo, Maui College, one of the University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges, and University of Guam who have declared a major are eligible to apply for HSGC URI Research Internships. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and must be sponsored by a mentor who is willing to guide the student for the duration of the award. Most mentors are faculty at the University but senior researchers or other qualified personnel at UH or elsewhere are eligible. HSGC URI Research Internship students are expected to work between 10 and 15 hours a week during the semester depending on their project. Financial support includes a one-semester stipend of $5000, renewable for a second semester for a total of $10000 per academic year. A travel and supply budget of $1000 per semester will be available.

All full-time undergraduates enrolled at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Hilo, Maui College, one of the University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges, and University of Guam are eligible to apply for HSGC URI Trainee Internships. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and must be sponsored by a mentor who is willing to guide the student for the duration of the award. HSGC URI Trainee Internship students are expected to work between 5 and 10 hours a week during the semester depending on their project. Financial support includes a one-semester stipend of $2500, renewable for a second semester for a total of $5000 per academic year. Or a one-semester Trainee Internship at $2500 can be extended into a second semester Research Internship at $5000 for a total award of $7500 per academic year. A supply budget of $500 per semester is available for Trainee Internships.

All full-time undergraduates enrolled at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Hilo, Maui College, one of the University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges, and the University of Guam are eligible to apply for HSGC URI Group Research Internships. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and must be sponsored by a mentor who is willing to guide the students for the duration of the award. HSGC URI Group Research Internship students are expected to work between 5 and 10 hours a week during the semester depending on their project. Financial support includes a one-semester stipend of $2500, renewable for a second semester for a total of $5000 per academic year for each student in the group. A travel and supply budget of $500 per semester is available for each student in the group.

Project Title: “Unraveling the 3 μm Band of Interstellar Ices”

Mentor: Dr. Adwin Boogert

Julia Williams is a Senior majoring in Astrophysics. Julia will investigate the composition and evolution of interstellar ices, which are key to astrochemistry and the formation of comets and planetary bodies. Using infrared spectroscopy data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), her study will analyze the 3 μm absorption band of interstellar ices around low-mass Young Stellar Objects (YSOs). By identifying the components contributing to this feature and correlating ice composition with YSO characteristics, the research aims to uncover variations compared to massive YSOs and dense clouds. These findings will shed light on the chemical and physical history of interstellar ices, contributing to NASA’s goal of understanding the Sun, the solar system, and the universe.

Project Title: “Understanding Carbonate Formation and Shock Metamorphism in Carbonaceous Chondrites”

Mentor: Dr. Elena Dobrica

Kara Kanetis is a Junior majoring in Astrophysics and Computer Sciences. Kara will investigate the formation and alteration of carbonates in carbonaceous chondrites (CMs) to uncover early Solar System processes. Focusing on the impact of shock metamorphism and fluid mobilization, the research will use advanced microscopy to analyze carbonate textures and mineralogy. The findings aim to enhance understanding of how collisions affect materials on small Solar System bodies, contributing to NASA’s goal of understanding early planetary processes.

Group Members:
Lance Bacalso Is a senior who is majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Tauren-John Magofna is a Junior who is majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Sean Raymund Palacay is Junior who is majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Project Title: “CubeSat Propulsion System”

Mentor: Dr. Giuseppe Gallo

The “CubeSat Propulsion System” team will focus on developing a novel propulsion system for CubeSats using High-Test Peroxide (HTP) and liquid nitrous oxide (LN₂O) in a hybrid rocket design. This system addresses the challenges posed by CubeSats’ compact form, offering an efficient solution for maneuvers such as station-keeping, orbital transfers, and rapid de-orbiting. This project aims to innovate CubeSat technology, aligning with NASA’s strategic goals and advancing small satellite capabilities.

Kaolin Randall is a Junior majoring in Mechanical Engineering with an Aerospace Concentration

Jai Ceraso …

Project Title: “Cubesat Relativistic Electron and Proton Energy Separator (CREPES)”

Mentor: Dr. Peter Englert

Cubesat Relativistic Electron and Proton Energy Separator (CREPES) is the study of high-energy particle emissions during solar events to better understand the interaction between the Sun and Earth. By characterizing particle flux and energy densities, the project aims to improve predictions of solar phenomena and their effects on space exploration and Earth’s technological systems.

Project Title: “Advanced Interlocking Structural Frames for Rapid Construction and Assembly (FRAMES)”

Group Members:

Kirsten Peterson is majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

Ethan Rocheville is a Senior majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

Mentor: Dr. Joseph Brown, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering – UH Mānoa

The group will explore the use of interlocking frames as a cost-efficient and sustainable solution for building infrastructure in deep space exploration, particularly on the Moon and Mars. These frames can be easily manufactured, assembled without additional hardware or adhesives, and reused for future projects. This aligns with NASA’s objective to improve infrastructure efforts and support deep space exploration. Interlocking frames offer a practical approach to developing lightweight, adaptable structures that are crucial for establishing infrastructure in space environments.

Project Title: Gamma Neutron Energy Space Exploration Spectrometer (GNESES)

Kate Macaulay – Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering with Aerospace Concentration

Alexander Peterson – Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering

Mentor: Dr. Peter Englert, Professor, HIGP – UHM

“Gamma Neutron Energy Space Exploration Spectrometer (GNESES)” is an innovative proposal that integrates neutron and gamma-ray detection for planetary exploration in a small volume array. Crafted in alignment with the NASA 2023-2032 decadal survey objectives, GNESES is designed to address critical goals such as determining planetary elemental composition, identifying water, and ultimately assessing the habitability potential of Mars and the Moon.

Group Members:
Joaquin Natividad is a Senior majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Ian Ogata is a Senior majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Scott Yang …

Project Title: “Regression Rate of CAMUI Hybrid Rocket Engines (CAMUI)”

Mentor: Dr. Giuseppe Gallo

Regression Rate of CAMUI Hybrid Rocket Engines (CAMUI) focuses on advancing hybrid rocket propulsion technology. The project investigates the solid fuel burn dynamics of Cascaded Multi-Stage Impinging Jet (CAMUI) hybrid rocket engines to develop a correlation law linking key physical parameters to the enhanced fuel burn rates achieved by the CAMUI design’s unique configuration. By utilizing high-pressure impinging jets, the project aims to improve fuel efficiency, combustion performance, and predictive models for fuel consumption.

Group Members

Casper macDhomhnail-RNHVTSH

Charlotte Downie

Mentor: Dr. Peter Englert, Professor, HIGP – UHM

The “Variability in Atmosphere due to Solar Energetic Events Study” (VIA-SEEs) is a CubeSat mission that intends to act as a joint science and technology mission. The continuing project is student-led under the support of the Earth and Planetary Exploration Technologies (EPET) program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The VIA detector development activities include the development of a spectrometer testbed, generating spectral reference data, and preparing scientific data acquisition from Low Earth Orbit. The team is able to study Solar Energetic Electrons, Nitrous Oxide, and Ozone concentration concurrently and after a solar event in order to study the degradation effects on our atmosphere.

Project Title: “Exploring Global Cooperation in the Age of Artemis”

Mentor: Dr. Peter Englert, Professor, HIGP – UH Mānoa

Albany Coate is a senior majoring in Political Science, American Studies with a focus on German Studies.

Albany will explore NASA’s leadership in international space diplomacy, focusing on the development of global norms for a safe, secure, and sustainable space environment. Her project evaluates the effectiveness of space law documents and agreements to foster international collaboration and sustainable practices in space exploration. The project highlights the importance of integrating diverse perspectives and supporting emerging space nations to enhance global cooperation and scientific advancement.

Project Title: “Searching for Exoplanets Using TimeDelays with TESS”

Mentor: Dr. Daniel Hey, Variable Stars Postdoctoral Fellow, IfA – UH Mānoa

Kiana Ejercito is a senior majoring in Astrophysics with a focus in Education.

Kiana will study a novel method for detecting exoplanets by analyzing the pulsations of δ Scuti stars, which are A-F type variables known for their stable pulsations. By measuring time delays in these pulsations, researchers can infer the presence of orbiting exoplanets. Utilizing data from the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), the project examines 73 δ Scuti stars to enhance the understanding of planetary systems around A-type stars. This approach not only broadens the scope of exoplanet detection but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the diversity and distribution of planetary systems in the galaxy.

Project Title: “Halo, Is It Me You’re Looking For? Improving Subhalo Models for Dark Matter”

Mentor: Dr. Winston Wu

Angela Claibourn is a Junior majoring in Astronomy and Physics. Angelaʻs research focuses on improving models of dark matter subhalos to better predict signals from dark matter annihilation. By addressing simulation issues and using data from the Bolshoi cosmological simulation, her project aims to create more accurate models of subhalos and their annihilation rates. This will help interpret gamma-ray signals detected by NASA’s Fermi Telescope, making it easier to identify dark matter signatures. Her research supports NASA’s goal of understanding the universe’s origins and provides better tools for studying dark matter in current and future missions.

Project Title: “Investigating the Correlation Between Galaxy Age and Morphology via JWST Observations”

Mentor: Marianne Takamiya

Augustus Coffey is a Senior majoring in Astronomy & Physics. His research project Galaxy Morphology and Evolution Pertaining to Asymmetry & Investigating the Correlation Between Galaxy Age Petrosian Radius via JWST Observations. Aligns with NASA’s goal of expanding humanity’s knowledge about our universe. By using data from the James Webb Space Telescope(JWST), we will observe and intend to understand the early structure of galaxies. Our main research question is: “How did the first galaxies form, [and] how did we end up with the large variety of galaxies we see today?” By analyzing the structure of these early galaxies and comparing them to newer galaxies, we intend to show how galaxy formation has changed throughout our Universe’s history.

Project Title: “Mapping the Diffuse Ionized Gas in Nearby Galaxies”

Mentor: Rene Pierre Martin, Assoc. Professor, College of Natural and Health Sciences – UH Hilo

Chloe Tysler is a Junior majoring in astronomy with a focus on Biology.

Chloe will focus on understanding galaxy evolution, particularly star formation and chemical enrichment, which are key to galaxy properties and the presence of planets. The project will utilize ground-based and space observatories like HST, JWST, and Euclid to investigate galaxies across the universe to study their structure, star formation, and black hole activity. A major project called SIGNALS (Star Formation, Ionized Gas, and Nebular Abundances Legacy Survey) examines 30 nearby galaxies using data from the SITELLE instrument at the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope.

Project Title: “Major Mergers Between Dark Matter Halos”

Mentor: Dr. Nicole Drakos

James Zisk is a Senior majoring in Astronomy and Physics. James’ research aims to address the “S8 tension” in cosmology, which arises from discrepancies in the parameters describing dark matter density and density perturbations. By studying the evolution of dark matter halo properties during mergers, the project seeks to improve the understanding of galaxy cluster properties and their relationship to cosmological models. Building on prior simulations of equal-mass halo mergers, the study will analyze halos of varying shapes and masses to predict properties like shape, energy, and angular momentum during mergers. The findings will be used to create a repository of merger simulations and calibrate these results with cosmological simulations, ultimately helping to constrain the S8 parameters.

Project Title: “Stellar Dynamics of Dwarf Galaxies as a Test for Dark Matter”

Mentor: Dr. Nicole Drakos

Jeffrey Kromer is a Junior majoring in Astronomy and English. Raven’s research project addresses “small-scale structure” problems in cosmic structure formation, where simulations of small dark matter halos conflict with observations of dwarf galaxies. By using the Energy-Truncation Model, which links the tidal stripping of stars to dark matter properties, his study aims to analyze the dark matter structure of dwarf galaxies. Leveraging highly accurate Gaia data on stellar motions, his research will develop phase-space plots of star velocities and positions to better understand the dark matter composition and orbital dynamics of dwarf galaxies.

Project Title: “Determining Star Formation Rates in Medium Redshift Galaxies Using OSIRIS IFU Spectra”

Mentor: Dr. Daniel Berke

Paige Matheson is a Junior majoring in Astronomy. Paige will be studying star formation in medium-redshift galaxies to enhance the understanding of galaxy evolution and the universe. By analyzing Hα emission lines—indicators of ionized hydrogen and star formation—in galaxy spectra, the study aims to use advanced tools like the OSIRIS spectrograph and adaptive optics on the Keck telescope. Leveraging insights from the James Webb Space Telescope’s infrared imaging, this work will determine star formation rates in medium-redshift galaxies, contributing to NASA’s objective of expanding knowledge of the cosmos for humanity’s benefit.

First Nation’s Launch 2025

Honolulu Community College

Group Members from 2nd to 5th:

Teal Hoffman – Natural Science Engineering
Shelby Dixon – Computer Engineering
Alexander Anderson – Mechanical Engineering
Arden Patoc – Natural Science Engineering

Mentors: Dr. Shidong Kan, Ms. Helen Rapozo, and Mr. Mevan Ranasinghe – HCC

Project Title: First Nation’s Launch 2025

First Nations Launch 2025 is an annual high-power rocket competition organized by the Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium and sponsored by NASA. The competition provides a unique opportunity for students to design, build, and launch high-powered rockets. It aims to foster engineering and design skills through hands-on experience.