NASA scientists get opportunities to conduct research and unique experiments on anything and everything related to space, and that too at the International Space Station.
That’s pretty cool, right? Who wouldn’t want to be a part of such a project where you actually get to unravel the mysteries of our universe and maybe even work from space, conducting experiments floating around in zero gravity!
Before knowing what steps you need to take to become a scientist, it’s important for you to understand who is a scientist and what they do.
In simple terms, a scientist is a skilled professional who conducts research and experiments to either invent or discover something new or update existing research findings using advanced scientific knowledge and skills.
The best part about becoming a scientist is that you can decide your own field of research. From soil science to space science – there are multiple options to choose from. So choose the field that interests you the most!
But before choosing a field to become a scientist, you should ask yourself this indispensable question.
Clever Harvey Insights : Your main goal of becoming a scientist will act as your driving force. So even if you feel stuck at any point along the way, you can always remind yourself why you chose to become a scientist to get a boost of confidence!
“Can I become a scientist at NASA if I am from India?”
Yes, you can.
Although NASA only recruits scientists and other professionals who are citizens of the United States of America, it does not mean that all doors are closed for Indian students to become NASA scientists.
There is a way in which you can become a NASA scientist from India.
To become an Indian scientist at NASA, you will have to become a permanent resident of the U.S and for that, there are certain requirements and procedures that you will have to follow to get your U.S citizenship.
You can opt for the process of Naturalization to seek permanent residence in any of the states of the U.S. For this, you either have to:
If you are at least 18 years old and meet the above requirements, then you can fill out Form N-400 and complete all further formalities as per the U.S government policies. If you want more information on becoming a U.S citizen by naturalization to become a NASA scientist, this USCIS brochure will provide you with all the information you need.
Be it NASA or ISRO, to become a scientist you need to have certain degrees in the field of science, technology, engineering or mathematics. These fields are commonly referred to as STEM.
“So, what should I study after the 12th standard to learn space science?”
Whether you are interested in space science, space biology or conducting research on subatomic particles, you will have to follow these 3 steps to become a scientist at NASA after class 12.
Be it engineering, biology or technology, you have to choose a course for graduation in one of the STEM fields from a recognized university in India or abroad. ‘STEM’ stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
While pursuing your graduation, you will gradually understand the basics of almost all fields of science. This will help you evaluate your abilities and recognize your inclination towards any one particular field. Go ahead and pursue your post-graduate studies in the field of your choice and give it your best.
Remember that your passion for science should match the subject you choose for specialization to make the most out of your experience.
If you want to conduct in-depth research in your field of study then it will probably be best for you to pursue your Ph.D. in that area to gain maximum experience and expertise to become a scientist at NASA.
Another option would be to gain relevant practical experience in your field of study in a research facility or institute to not only advance your knowledge but also gain work experience in an organized scientific environment. This learning experience can also add immense value to your journey of becoming a scientist at NASA.
Harvey insight: Apart from having relevant academic qualifications to become a scientist at NASA, you should also work on your personal project to build your portfolio as a teenager.
You can conduct your own research as a budding space scientist and present your work on an international platform.
How?
NASA offers a wide range of summer camps and internship programs to students as young as 10 years old to get an early idea of working on space-related missions. But these programs are limited to only U.S citizens.
“So, are there no opportunities for Indian students to explore their passion and skills to become a scientist at NASA?”
Yes, there are!
As an Indian teenager, you can participate in two of the most exciting international space contests to try your hand at building projects for space as a budding scientist.
International Competitions for Indian Students in Space Science
| Name of program | Who is it for? | What you get | Application fee |
| International Space Olympiad | Students from 5th – 12th grade | Trip to NASA | INR 500 |
| National Space Society Settlement Contest | Students from 7th – 12th grade | $5000 cash prize +Get a chance to give a talk at the ISDC* | $15 |
*ISDC stands for International Space Development Conference
Don’t miss out on this chance to show the world that you have what it takes to become a NASA scientist. Go enroll now and take the first step towards living your dream!
If you are looking for some good colleges to help you start your educational journey of becoming a scientist at NASA, this table is all you need. It contains a list of the best colleges worldwide for 3 of the best scientific research fields at NASA.
List of Colleges to Become a Scientist at NASA
| Field of Science | Best Colleges |
| Astronomy & Physics | Cornell University (USA)University of Edinburgh (UK) |
| Geology | California Institute of Technology or CalTech (USA)University of Colorado (USA) |
| Space or Astro Biology | Indian Astrobiology Research Centre (India)California Institute of Technology or CalTech (USA) |
There is no one university or college from where NASA recruits its batch of scientists. In fact, you do not necessarily have to study from Ivy League schools to become a scientist at NASA.
NASA looks for scientists who are not afraid to follow their passion in the field of science and apply their knowledge and skills to contribute to the greater good of humanity. Start the journey of self-exploration with Clever Harvey’s JuniorMBA program in Technology to develop and apply your skills and learning to a real-world project. Gain industry insight directly from expert professionals in the field of technology and take your first step in the real world of applied science.
So, whatever course or college you choose, make sure to pour your heart and soul into your work and never stop learning!
“NASA also employs scientists who play a critical role in science management. Program, project and discipline scientists work together to carry out science investigations, monitor program execution and ensure the scientific success of the mission.” – NASA
An organization that big is sure to have a variety of roles to offer its scientists. NASA offers as many as 15 distinct scientist roles to new-age scientists. These are the top 10 roles you can choose from when you become a scientist at NASA.
Which scientist do you plan to become at NASA?
As a scientist at NASA, the only thing that remains constant is their philosophy of living “everyday extraordinary”. This means that no two days remain consistent. Each day at NASA as a scientist brings a new discovery and challenge which makes a scientist’s career all the more exciting!
If you are thinking about becoming a scientist then you must already have a keen interest in the field of science. However, simply being interested in the field is not going to make you a scientist. You must have strong dedication and a rough goal in mind (at least at this stage) as to what you would achieve or discover when you do become a scientist at NASA.
So, why you want to be a scientist is a question only you can answer. Before you start looking for courses and programs to help you become a scientist, you must get clarity on what’s driving you to become a scientist at NASA in the first place. Once you have a clear-cut answer, the following steps of becoming a scientist will become much more achievable.
“Our scientists are always up for a challenge and our innovative culture ensures that no two days are the same.“ – NASA
Hope you found everything you needed to know about being a scientist at NASA in our article. If you have further questions, you can visit our FAQ section below.
All the best!
There is no definite number of years that will make you a scientist at NASA. However, to complete your education as a scientist, it can take anywhere from 6 to 8 years to start working as a scientist at NASA.
The annual average salary of a scientist at NASA sums up to $65,000. However, depending on your experience and job role, it can go as high as $120,000 annually.
No single degree or course is “best” for NASA. You must have a relevant degree and work experience in the field of science, technology, engineering or mathematics to join NASA as a scientist.
A Btech course in aerospace engineering, aeronautics or astronomy can be chosen after the 12th standard to become a space scientist. Later on, you must pursue at least a master’s degree in the same discipline and a post-doctoral program if possible.
NASA recruits only U.S citizens. So if you want to join NASA as an Indian, you should first get U.S citizenship through the naturalization process.
Chief Scientist’ is the highest position at NASA for a scientist.
NASA stands for National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
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