FAQS

What sort of applicants are we looking for? 

The participants of FDL Earth Systems Lab (ESL) are PhD or Postdoc level researchers in AI, data science, space sciences or software engineers. Successful candidates are matched to form small (three-person) multi-disciplinary, complementary teams for the research cycle. FDL carefully curates teams from all the researchers that make it through to the final selection pool balancing deep subject expertise, technical capacity and knowledge and abilities to work across disciplines.

Can I apply as both an AI/data science, space science researcher and software engineer?

Over time, we have seen a shift as more applicants bring both ML and space science experience to the table. These applicants do tend to lean in one direction, however, when it comes to specialty, we ask all applicants to align themselves with one of four categories:

• ML / AI / Data Scientist

• Hybrid - Specialty ML Lead

• Energy / Space (Domain) Science Scientist

• Hybrid - Specialty Energy / Space (Domain) Scientist Lead

Your choice will not affect your application positively or negatively. A frank self-assessment of your skills is important. We select for potential and curiosity as well as skill set, and if there is a lack of domain experts, researchers with experience in related fields or technologies will be considered.

What are the dates of the FDL Earth Systems Lab research sprint?

The FDL ESL research sprint is expected to take place from mid-June to mid-August. This will be followed by a publication phase to allow teams to focus on polishing results by continuing to review and improve on their work. A showcase will take place towards the end of October and researchers will be asked to submit their finalised technical memos to AGU and NeurIPS.

FDL ESL will be an 8-week full-time paid effort and the work will be carried out over three phases. Your full-time commitment is expected throughout the duration of the research sprint and there will be commitment required during the publication phase as well. 

Where does the research sprint take place? 

At the moment, the location remains undecided. However, we've successfully conducted research in both in-person and hybrid formats. We aim to finalise the details in the upcoming months and will keep all applicants updated on the latest developments.

Do I need to put my own research on hold?

During the research sprint, teams work intensively on their projects and are expected to be present and active for the full duration. There may also be additional social activities so be prepared to be kept busy. However, we hope that the work you do during FDL ESL will complement your research - either by providing a deep-dive introduction to emerging AI techniques to take back to your own investigations, or providing an opportunity to work shoulder-to-shoulder with world-class experts from space agencies and private sector partners.  

Each year the researchers comment on the value of getting a fresh perspective and the strong relationships and friendships that are made.

I’m not sure if I meet all the criteria, should I still apply?

We are looking for a diverse group of individuals, so we strongly encourage you to apply even if you’re not sure that you meet our criteria. Teamwork skills are just as important as anything else. That said, we expect to have many more applicants than available places, so we will prioritise applicants in PhD or postdoctoral program’s. 

Do I have to pay to take part in FDL Earth Systems Lab?

No. Researchers receive a stipend for the duration of the research cycle as well as complimentary accommodations for any in-person portion of the research.

Is FDL Earth Systems Lab an accompanied research cycle?

No. Accommodation is provided for researchers during the one week in-person sprint (if deemed in-person), but we have no additional accommodation available for friends and family during in-person portions of the research cycle.