Michael Kipp (left) and Matthew Koehler (right) take snow samples on the sloping Muir Snowfields of Mt. Rainer, WA

A significant focus of UW Astrobiology’s graduate program is to provide our students with opportunities for hands-on interdisciplinary research experiences, and in-the-field learning. Our annual workshops are multi-day educational field trips, and are a centerpiece of the interdisciplinary training in our Program.

The Astrobiology Workshops are non-credit-bearing professional development activities funded and organized by the Astrobiology Program. Participation in 3 UW Astrobiology Workshops (offered annually) is required for student’s to graduate with the Astrobiology Dual-Titled PhD.

Dr. David Des Marais explains the geochemical origins of the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park

Workshops typically involve technical lectures and presentations from faculty members combined with in-the-field research (e.g., sample collection and analysis). Workshops generally last 2-3 days and are scheduled at times least likely to conflict with other activities on the academic calendar. If you are a UWAB student, look out for an email about signing up for the next workshop!

We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our students and alumni about this component of our curriculum, and many people have told us that these experiences have been some of the most memorable and valuable aspects of their time in the UWAB program. However, our limited State funding for these workshops means that not all students who are interested in participating in a given field trip are able to do so.

Many years, we use donations to our Friends of Astrobiology Fund to help support attendance at the workshop. Even a small donation can make a big difference to an individual student, and we are very thankful for your support!

Past UWAB Workshops