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NASA Launches $100K Challenge for Students Tackling Flood Analysis
Use quantum computing, neuromorphic tech, or other breakthrough tools to reshape disaster response and environmental resilience.
Joseph Sampson
June 30, 2025 • 7 minutes
What’s Happening Today!
Welcome to a new & exciting daily post from That Black Chemist!
Today we’re highlighting an innovation-driven competition from NASA: the Beyond the Algorithm Challenge, where participants use cutting-edge tools like quantum computing or machine learning to improve flood analysis. With a chance to win $100,000 and get mentored by NASA experts, this is a rare opportunity to shape the future of environmental science and disaster response!
Next in Scientist’s Scroll, we’re breaking down one of the most common (and misunderstood) health issues: headaches. From tension-type pain to severe migraines, today’s post explains the science behind why our heads hurt and how researchers classify and treat different types.
And if you love memes, stay tuned through the end!
Upcoming Opportunities
🌊 NASA Launches “Beyond the Algorithm” Challenge for Flood Analysis Innovation
NASA's Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO) is calling on students, researchers, and tech pioneers to tackle rapid flood analysis using unconventional computing methods like quantum computing, neuromorphic chips, and in-memory systems.
The Beyond the Algorithm Challenge invites participants to design a solution for improving flood analysis using novel architectures with the chance to win up to $100,000 and collaborate with NASA experts.
📅 Program Details
Submission Deadline: July 25th, 2025 at 8:00 PM EDT
Format: 5-page white paper + 2-3 minute video
Host: NASA Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO)
Audience: Students, researchers, startups, & interdisciplinary teams
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents, 18 years or older
Apply Online: [Beyond the Algorithm Challenge]
✅ Competition Timeline
Phase 1: Submit proposal + explainer video (up to 10 finalists selected)
Phase 2: Pitch event with judges, optional code submission (3 winners chosen)
Phase 3: Winners receive $100k each + post-competition support through NASA
⚠️ Bonus Opportunities You Should Know
🧪 NSF REU Summer Research Programs: List of funded undergrad research programs. (Search here)
🎓 Zintellect: List of scholarships, research fellowships, and internship opportunities funded by the U.S. government or private sector. (Search here)
💰 NASA OSTEM Internships: List of NASA Internships for high school and undergraduate STEM students. (More info)
🪖 Department of Defense (DoD) SMART Scholarship: $30,000-$46,000 scholarship awarded to top STEM students. (Link)
🌍 International Opportunities
🧲 Pathways to Science: List of upcoming internships, scholarships, and research programs hosted by any country [open to international students]. (Search here)
🔬 Amgen Scholars Program: Prestigious summer research program for undergraduate students in the U.S., Europe, or Asia. (More info)
⚛️ European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN): Search for any upcoming internships related to chemistry, physics, engineering, or data science! (Link here)
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Scientist’s Scroll
🧠 Why Do We Get Headaches? Science Breaks Down the Pain
Headaches are one of the most common and complex medical issues, affecting people of all backgrounds. Here are the three major types of headaches:
Primary (like migraines or tension headaches)
Secondary (caused by another health condition)
Neuropathic/Other (from nerve damage or rare conditions)
Tension-type headaches are the most common and are linked to stress, poor posture, lack of sleep, dehydration, or long screen time. You feel pressure or tightness on both sides of your head.
Tip of the Day
🔍 Know Where to Look for Internships in Your Field
Finding the right internship isn’t about luck: it’s about knowing where to search. Whether you're in biology, chemistry, engineering, or data science, there are go-to places that consistently post the best opportunities. Here's where to start:
💻 University Job Boards: Many schools have platforms that post research openings, lab positions, and company internships before they hit public sites.
🌐 Professional Societies: Organizations like ACS, IEEE, and ASBMB post internships, fellowships, and summer research programs relevant to their fields.
🔬 Research-Focused Platforms: Sites like PathwaysToScience.org, NSF REU, and Zintellect.com list tons of STEM research programs and paid internships.
📱 Social Media & Newsletters: Follow professors, research groups, and science orgs on TikTok, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and That Black Chemist.
🧑🏾🔬 Faculty & Lab Pages: Professors and national labs often host interns over the summer, even without formal postings. If you see a project that excites you, reach out!
Subscribe to explore daily research opportunities!
Today’s Theme: Meme Monday
Because Mondays suck, here are three science memes to make you laugh!
👇🏾 Vote for your favorite in the comments or share with a lab mate!
🧪 Meme #1
🔬 Meme #2
🥼 Meme #3
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