The Leiden/ESA Astrophysics Program for Summer Students (LEAPS)

TL;DR

LEAPS is a 10-week, fully funded astrophysics research program for undergraduates and master's students, promoting diversity, mentorship, and early research involvement, with positive impacts on participants' academic careers.

Contribution

The paper presents the design, implementation, and outcomes of the LEAPS program, highlighting its role in fostering diversity and early research engagement in astrophysics.

Findings

Over 50% of participants progressed to Ph.D. studies.

Participants contributed to at least 25 peer-reviewed publications.

LEAPS has supported students from over 40 countries.

Abstract

International student mobility plays a critical role in shaping future research careers, particularly in highly globalized fields such as astrophysics. The Leiden/ESA Astrophysics Program for Summer Students (LEAPS) offers a 10-week, fully funded research program at Leiden Observatory and the European Space Agency's ESTEC centre for undergraduate and master's students. Designed to foster early research involvement, LEAPS supports students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds. Since its inception in 2013, LEAPS has hosted 194 students from over 40 countries. Data collected for 165 participants reveal that over 50% have progressed to Ph.D. studies, with some members of earlier cohorts already securing competitive international fellowships in astronomy. LEAPS participants have collectively contributed to at least 25 peer-reviewed publications and 13 international conference presentations. LEAPS has contributed successfully in preparing undergraduates for research careers in astrophysics through hands-on experience, mentorship, and scientific exposure. By addressing barriers related to financial means and promoting diversity, the program not only enhances individual career trajectories but also contributes to the broader goal of inclusive academic mobility. Continued efforts are needed to further increase global representation and assess long-term impacts on participants' scientific careers.