University of New Mexico

📍 Albuquerque, NM | https://www.unm.edu

Contributors: Allison Shaver (Student Delegate, 2024), Collin Nesbit (Student Delegate, 2022-2023), Giovanni Cordova (Student Delegate, 2022-2023) 

Welcome to the crash course for space resources at The University of New Mexico! Click on the Table of Contents (above) to visit a chapter. 

🎓 Degrees

🐺 Please Note: If you are a prospective student, UNM does not offer degrees in aerospace engineering nor space science.

Below is a list of recommended undergraduate and graduate degrees to launch a career in the space industry.

The majority of high-level space careers are in engineering, business, science, and research. While technician and administrative opportunities are available, be aware that these types of employment may be short-term.

Regardless of degree, the very topic of "space" can inspire creativity from every discipline. New Space is rapidly evolving to accommodate more diverse degrees. As an example of how the space industry is changing, you no longer need an engineering background to become a NASA astronaut.

What about a minor?

Minor in whatever interests you! A minor (or double minor) can be a great way to explore your personal interests, improve your cumulative GPA, and demonstrate your skills in another area. While your major is a critical factor in future education and career plans, employers may not consider your minor(s) when evaluating hires.

The University of New Mexico - Recommended Degree List

👩🏽‍🔬 Research

What is Research?

Research is a large project that contributes new knowledge to your discipline. It is a fantastic way to get involved with space, regardless of major.

📖 For a comprehensive list of terminology, visit the Dictionary. 

UNM has two websites dedicated to undergraduate research:

Here, we have slightly elaborated on programs, centers, and curated a list of recommended labs that directly or indirectly research the space industry.

🐺 Note: Research labs must be actively conducting space research in order to be listed.

How to Get Involved in Research

The Undergraduate Research, Arts & Design Network (URAD) is an undergraduate research starter guide with workshops, one-on-one scheduling, a list of current student research opportunities, and so much more. Visit their site here: https://urad.unm.edu/students/index.html.

Also be sure to visit:

Below, we list the different ways that you can get involved in research at UNM.

Tips:


Undergraduate Research Programs

The following research programs are also listed on the URAD and UROC websites.

Best for General Interest. These programs are perfect if you are new to research or if you are still exploring your interests.

Biomedical/Health Research Programs. These programs require an interest or commitment to the biomedical health sciences.

STE(A)M Programs. These programs encourage an artistic or interdisciplinary background, particularly from underrepresented groups.

STEM Programs. These programs require that you are enrolled in a STEM degree.

Committed to Research. These programs require a strong commitment to pursue a PhD and are very competitive.

The following degrees offer a Departmental Honor from our recommended degree list. A Departmental Honor is a fantastic way to be competitive for graduate school and can help you stand out as an industry expert.

🐺 Note: View the official list for a complete list of departmental honors.

Research Centers

Another way to get involved in research is by working at a research center. UNM has one research center, COSMIAC, that is dedicated to space activities.

COSMIAC. [External Link]

Target Major(s): Engineering

A Tier-2 Research Center through the School of Engineering, COSMIAC focuses on the development of technology and systems for military and aerospace customers. Examples of their work include small satellite development, materials testing, and navigation systems.

ASPIRE. [External Link]

Target Major(s): Computer Science, Engineering, Geology, Geography, Mathematics & Statistics

The Center for the Advancement of Spatial Informatics Research and Education is an interdisciplinary research center that integrates remote sensing, statistics, engineering, geography, geology, and more for applications in a variety of areas.

CQuIC. [External Link]

Target Major(s): Computer Science, Engineering

The Center for Quantum Information and Control collaborates with the National Laboratories, NSF STAQ project, and QEO project to advance quantum systems such as computers, communication networks, enhanced sensors, information processing platforms, and more. It is one of two NSF "Focused Research Hubs in Theoretical Physics" in the nation.

PAIS. [External Link]

Target Major(s): Physics, Astronomy

The Physics and Astronomy Interdisciplinary Science (PAIS) building was recently built for additional research labs, grant funding, and opportunities in STEM. You can also find information on how to access the Observatory from here.

Grand Challenges

Did you know that UNM has Grand Challenges? These illustrious competitions are hosted to solve some of the world’s greatest problems through multidisciplinary teams.

At UNM, Grand Challenges operate in a dynamic feedback loop. In 2021, ten teams were recommended to "Level One: Concept Teams." They are:

In 2023, three out of the ten original teams advanced to "Level Two: Grand Challenges Teams." These teams were renamed but retain their mission statements:

"Level Three: Leveling Up" teams will have their funding extended for an additional year and interface with regional or national entities. Once these teams have successfully implemented their large-scale infrastructure, they can either advance to "Emeritus Status" or transition down to allow other teams the chance to "level up." Level Three teams have not been announced as of June 2024.

The Grand Challenges at UNM has evolved over the years, but attending special announcements can be a great way to learn about research. There may also be the opportunity to present research or share your research story with a greater audience.

Research Labs

The following professors have been recommended or have agreed to be featured on our site. Be sure to email them first: some may no longer have availability for more students in their lab.

This is a developing section! Check back later or apply to be a Student Delegate and help fill out this section!

💸 Scholarships

UNM Scholarship List

The following scholarships have been selected from a variety of UNM resources that can be related to the space industry.

For a complete list of scholarships, please visit:

🐺 Note: These scholarships require that you are currently enrolled at the University of New Mexico.

Notable Scholarships

Astronaut Scholarship [External Link]

The Astronaut Scholarship is a prestigious award (up to $15,000) for undergraduates that intend to pursue STEM research after graduating. In addition to financial support, scholars are offered lifetime mentorship by professional astronauts. Deadline: March.

Osher Re-entry Scholarship [External Link]

The Bernard Osher Foundation offers up to 50% tuition assistance for non-traditional students pursuing their first bachelor's degree. Applicants must have experienced a 5+ year interruption in their studies due to work and family commitments. Deadline: November.

National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) [External Link]

This illustrious award provides an annual stipend of $37,000 to graduate students conducting research in the United States. Deadline: October.


Tips & Additional Resources


Tip 1: Visit UNM Career Services.

You will see this tip a lot! That’s because Career Services helps you with just that: your career! Visit them to build your resume, letter of intent, and practice for scholarship interviews.


Tip 2: Create a calendar.

There are few things more frustrating than missing an opportunity. Prevent this by keeping track of application materials and deadlines ahead of time. Keep scholarship names and important deadlines on a calendar. See our calendar for an example.


Tip 3: Keep a rapport contact list.

Write down the names and contact information of the professors who can write your letters of recommendation. Professors are used to writing letters, so don't feel shy to ask for one.

When emailing a professor, include the scholarship that you are applying for and briefly describe why you are a good fit. Attach your resume or curriculum vitae (CV).

It is best to give your professor(s) at least two weeks to one month in advance to write a strong letter.


Tip 4: Don’t be discouraged.

Scholarship applications can take a lot of time and preparation. It can be discouraging if you don’t get awarded, but don’t give up. There might be another opportunity to apply, or perhaps you are a better fit for a different scholarship. Either way, applying for scholarships is a great way to learn what you want and how to navigate future career decisions.

✨ Student Organizations

Did you know about these student organizations at UNM? Student organizations facilitate professional development through activities and leadership opportunities. We highly recommend applying for an officer position in a student organization that you enjoy. The experiences that officer positions can offer—handling budgets, meetings, feedback, and coordinating with people outside of UNM—is a huge part of the professional world. Get started now!

Search for a complete list of student organizations here.

*Denotes a chapter of a larger organization.


STEM Student Organizations

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)* [Local Link] [National Link]

The AIAA is dedicated to addressing the professional interests and needs of the future aerospace workforce. The organization works to advance the state of aerospace operations including science, engineering, technology, and policy.


American Chemical Society* [National Link]

The American Chemical Society is dedicated to help familiarize undergraduate students with the chemical sciences and their respective fields. Chemistry can be complicated on exoplanets, which give us a better understanding of how to care for the Earth. The challenges might appear easier to some—actually, it’s just basic chemistry.


American Institute of Chemical Engineers* [Local Link] [National Link]

The American Institute of Chemical Engineers provides an array of activities for students and faculty to further professional development in chemical engineering. When it comes to space, the chemical understanding of materials and fuels is a key part in furthering space-faring capabilities.


Computer Science Graduate Student Association (CSGSA) [Link]

The Computer Science Graduate Student Association, on behalf of the Department of Computer Science, promotes research, collaboration and communication for graduate students. The CSGSA holds an annual Computer Science Student Conference to share computer science research for all students, regardless of major.


Women in Computing (WinC) [Link]

Women in Computing was founded in 2013 and has since supported women in the Computer Science department through job opportunities, scholarships, mentoring, and funding for conferences. Join every other Wednesday from 12:00pm to 1:00pm for “Women in Computing Tea Time.” Additional events can be found on their calendar.

WinC also provides an Incident Response Guide that can be found here.


Society of Women Engineers* [Local Link] [National Link]

The Society for Women Engineers is an international advocate that supports women pursuing technical careers in engineering. The UNM chapter not only offers professional benefits, but they are active in the local community for STEM outreach and engagement. This organization encompasses all aspects of engineering, the very field that gets us to outer space!


Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers at UNM* [Local Link] [National Link]

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers at UNM provides workshops, activities, networking opportunities, and other career-focused events for electrical engineering students. Electronics shape modern systems, especially within fields such as robotics, and help us better understand our planetary neighbors through satellite communications.


American Society of Civil Engineers* [Local Link] [National Link]

The American Society of Civil Engineers gives students hands-on work plus a professional network of civil engineers. Civil engineering plays a significant role in space infrastructure; successful space missions rely on logistical requirements, such as safe launch pads and a strong understanding of material strength.


American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)* [Local Link] [National Link]

The ASME provides opportunities and extracurricular involvement for mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, nuclear engineering, and physics at the undergraduate- and graduate-level. Mechanical engineering is found in almost every aspect of aerospace, such as the development of rockets, rovers, probes, and instruments.


American Nuclear Society* [Local Link] [National Link]

This local chapter of the national American Nuclear Society advances professional development, outreach, and science and engineering work related to the atomic nucleus. Nuclear pulse propulsion methods—such as those tested with Project Orion—experiment with the future of highly efficient engines in space travel. In Summer 2022, the chapter received national accolades with the Samuel Glasstone Award.


Physics and Astronomy Graduate Student Association [Local Link]

The Physics and Astronomy Graduate Student Association supports graduate students with a local network and resources as a chapter of the GSPA. They welcome prospective students and post semester newsletters on their website.


Society of Physics Students* [Local Link] [National Link]

The Society of Physics Students is a chapter of the national Honors organization of the same name. Anyone, regardless of major, is allowed to join. Their most recent magazine edition, Radiations, features the importance of physics work with the James Webb Space Telescope.


Non-STEM Student Organizations

Graduate and Professional Student Association (GSPA) [Link]

The Graduate and Professional Student Association has been the recognized student government for graduates and professionals at the University of New Mexico since 1969. They support graduate and professional development through advocacy, education, and financial support.


Call for Student Organizations!

If you lead or know a student organization related to space or the topics listed below, please contact us!

🐺 Please Note: We will not list student organizations designated as political groups or with political affiliations.


University Organizations

African American Student Services [Link]

The African American Student Services provides cultural and professional development opportunities for African American students, including academic advising to research opportunities and more.

American Indian Student Services [Link]

The American Indian Student Services provides cultural and professional development opportunities for American Indian / Indigenous students, including an ambassador program to cultural events and more.

El Centro de la Raza [Link]

El Centro de la Raza provides cultural and professional development opportunities for Hispanic / Latin(x) students, including research programs to advocacy and more.

Men of Color Initiative (MOCI) [Link]

The Men of Color Initiative provides professional development opportunities to increase graduation retention rates for men of color, including coaching to career planning and more.

Project for New Mexico Graduates of Color (PNMGC) [Link]

The Project for New Mexico Graduates of Color works with undergraduate and graduate students to facilitate academic, cultural, and leadership support.

Society of Native American Graduate Students [Link]

The Society of Native American Graduate Students provides advocacy and support for Indigenous and non-Indigenous graduate students at UNM.

UNM Association for Non-Traditional Students (ANTS) [Link]

This student-run organization offers non-traditional students a variety of resources, information, and peer support networks to assist in acclimating to and succeeding in the university environment.

UNM Childcare [Link]

Provides affordable childcare for UNM students, staff, and faculty.

UNM Sanctuary Campus [Link]

The UNM Sanctuary Campus is a coalition of the greater UNM and Albuquerque community who provide support and resources for undocumented and immigrant students.

Veterans Resource Center [Link]

Run by veterans, for veterans at UNM. Available to all veterans and their families, the Veterans Resource Center provides support and resources to help veteran students transition to the civilian/academic environment.