Join the OC

The Next Generation Lunar Scientists and Engineers (NextGen) Organizing Committee (OC) is looking to add 3–5 new members to our team!

We are looking for early career scientists and engineers who are passionate about the vision of NextGen and who are interested in taking on more leadership roles within the group. Applicants must demonstrate an involvement in NextGen activities and/or LEAG events with unique ideas for the future.

In addition to At-Large members, we are soliciting applications for several named roles within the OC. These include Events Lead, Treasurer, and EDIA Lead (see descriptions below). If you are interested in one of these roles please indicate so in your statement, and any experience related to that role.

General Responsibilities may include:

• Serve as a leader in the early-career lunar exploration community

• Assist in organizing virtual and in-person workshops at LPSC, LEAG, and other meetings, as well as stand-alone events

• Engage with LEAG and SSERVI leaders about community activities

• Maintain the website and social media accounts

• Communicate with the lunar community and the NextGen group regarding upcoming events, workshops, job postings, etc.

Events Lead role description: Identify opportunities for NextGen events and provide leadership for event organization. The event lead will be assisted by other members of the OC but serves as the main point of contact. Events include, but are not limited to, NextGen sponsored workshops and informal get-togethers.

Treasurer role description: Be knowledgeable about the current state of NextGen finances and track transactions to keep records accurate and up to date.

EDIA Lead role description: Promote and advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) efforts within NextGen OC and the broader NextGen community. Identify ways NextGen can advance and support minoritized groups within the lunar community.  EDIA Lead will support Communications and Event Leads in promoting EDIA.

Eligibility:

• Student or <10 years post-terminal degree (time off due to life events does not count toward 10 years)

• Demonstrated involvement in lunar science and engineering and/or NextGen, including conference abstracts, publications, attendance at NextGen activities, and/or LEAG events, etc.

• Able to commit to a minimum of 2 years of service on the OC (preferably more)

Application Requirements:

• A statement (750 words or less) describing your vision for how you see NextGen fitting in with the future of lunar science and exploration, and what you plan to bring to the table as a leader within NextGen.

• One-page CV highlighting your education, research focus, and community engagement.

To apply, please fill out this form by Monday, April 30, 2023.​

Notification of Outcome: Late May 2023

FAQs:

Does the position come with financial support? 

Unfortunately, not at this time. We are working on finding ways to obtain/raise funds to support NextGen travel and activities. Occasionally SSERVI or LEAG will invite NextGen folks to fill in special roles at workshops/meetings and in those cases travel may be covered by those organizations. 

What is the time commitment?

Most of our communications happen via email, and not every month has an event going on. A typical month requires a time commitment of an hour, or less. Event planning usually includes a little more time commitment to get workshops organized, logistics sorted out, and items ordered.

In the event that someone from LEAG or SSERVI reaches out to NextGen to assist with special workshops/meetings/projects, it may require higher levels of commitment, but only for a short period of time (e.g., serving as note takers at workshops, writing reports, serving on committees, etc.). These activities are 100% voluntary and not required of all OC members. We also understand that there are periods of time when commitment levels may need to be less for OC members (e.g., exams, proposals, trips, family/medical reasons, etc). That's why we have a team of leaders instead of just a single leader - we are here to help carry the load for each other.