For more than three decades, the U.S. National Science Foundation Unidata (NSF Unidata) program has provided innovative data services, open-source software tools, and technical support to enhance Earth system science education and research. By supplying critical computing infrastructure and essential software like MetPy and the THREDDS Data Server, Unidata maintains a global data sharing network that ensures classrooms and labs around the world have free access to real-time geoscience data. Through these advanced tools and data streams, the program empowers scientists and students to analyze, visualize, and solve complex Earth system science challenges.

NSF Unidata also funds summer internships that offer students more than just a typical research experience. It is a community-focused program that combines hands-on software development, expert mentoring, and technical training to help students succeed in higher education and beyond. Through summer participation, students gain hands-on experience with modern software workflows, leading-edge cloud computing, scientific communication skills, and access to a powerful network of mentors and peers.

Today, NSF Unidata interns and alumni are driving innovation across higher education, government agencies, and private industry, utilizing their expertise to lead the next generation of data-enabled scientific discovery.