• About the Program
• Apply
  • How Postdoctorates Apply
  • How Hosting Institutions Apply
  • Letters of Reference
• Appointment Details

• Join a Community
  • Heliophysics Science
  • Climate Research

Letters of Reference

Guidelines for reference letters and hosting letters of intent

Applications must include the names and contact information of at least four professional references. Applicants are responsible for personally contacting their references to have letters submitted electronically to UCAR/VSP by the application deadline. One letter must be from the thesis advisor. Letters from more than one institution are encouraged.

Reference letters should include assessment of the applicant's level of scholarship, including placement in class, scientific potential, and qualifications for postdoctoral research.

The primary objective of this fellowship program is to grow the pool of scientists needed for a specific objective. Comments regarding the applicant will be treated confidentially and will be used by the steering committee to help determine both strengths and weaknesses of the applicant. Any specific comments regarding the applicant's ability to work independently, to pursue new topics, and to interact with others are very useful.

Potential hosting scientists should submit a Letter of Intent to Host the applicant, explaining plans for mentoring. Potential hosts should not provide a letter of reference for the applicant. Letters of Intent should include a one-page CV and a list of current and pending research support.

The deadline for applications is January 11, 2012. Appointments will be announced in March.

Please see the 2012 Announcement for complete details.

NASA Living With a Star, Heliophysics Division, sponsors this program. UCAR is an EE/AAE who values and encourages diversity in the workplace.