MSU, NASA partnership recruiting students, early career scientists for environmental research project

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State’s Office of Research and Economic Development is now recruiting the next generation of planet observation leaders for NASA’s Earth Action DEVELOP program.

A flooded field in the Mississippi Delta is pictured. — Mississippi State researchers are studying NASA Earth observations to better quantify the impact of flooding in the Delta after the university was designated a Pop-Up Project location for the agency's Earth Action DEVELOP program. (Photo by Kevin Hudson)

DEVELOP, which chose �̾��Ƶas a Pop-Up Project—or PUP—location, is selecting up to four students and early-career participants for a U.S. Geological Survey-designed initiative specifically assessing the utilization of NASA Earth observations to better quantify Delta region seasonal flooding and its impact and influence on vegetation, agriculture and waterfowl habitats. DEVELOP interdisciplinary research projects address environmental and public policy challenges, applying the lens of these Earth observations to global community concerns.

“This is a unique opportunity for students to work with NASA scientists and mentors on important global issues right here in Mississippi,” said Julie Jordan, vice president for research and economic development. “These experiences not only foster individual student career growth but help prepare future scientists in our country.”

Narcisa Pricope, associate vice president for research and geosciences professor, is MSU’s lead scientist for the NASA DEVELOP project, joined by Lalitha Dabbiru, CAVS assistant research professor; Padmanava Dash, associate geosciences professor; and Vitor Martins, assistant agricultural and biological engineering professor.

DEVELOP teams conduct more than 50 projects a year which span nine thematic application areas: agriculture, climate, disasters, ecological conservation, energy, health and air quality, urban development, water resources and wildland fires. Methodologies include how to access, acquire, process and analyze freely available geospatial data. Because these are rapid feasibility projects, the scope and scale are focused typically from the city to state level.

With success during the first 10-week term in spring 2025, �̾��Ƶcan continue as a PUP location, which enhances the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan, Bulldog Experience, in integrating experiential, applied learning in all aspects of instruction.

To apply for the DEVELOP program, visit .

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