Teaching Assistants (TA) are needed for a 4-week long summer program, the MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute, being taught virtually. The Remote Sensing for Disaster Response course will teach students to use Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) tools, aerial and satellite imagery, image analysis techniques, network science, and optimization to make informed response decisions. Over an intensive 4-week program, participants will learn to analyze geospatial data and remotely sensed multispectral imagery, learn domain knowledge from disaster response agencies, and use optimization techniques to make informed response decisions. For more information on BWSI program visit: https://bwsi.mit.edu/about/about-bwsi/
Over the course, students will learn about Python, data science, GIS, multispectral imaging, image processing, network science, and optimization. Labs will focus on developing, understanding, and implementing these concepts toward a final exercise: a mock disaster response. For the final exercise, students must analyze storm predictions to make evacuation decisions prior to a hurricane. Once the hurricane hits, students must assess the damage and make decisions to repair and resupply key infrastructure components to ensure the safety of a simulated population. The program runs from July 6 to August 2, 2026, Monday to Friday, from 10AM to 6PM at MIT Beaver Works, and is being taught virtually. The TA would need to be available starting June 22nd for course prep work and for Saturday August 1st and Sunday August 2nd for the final challenge.
Job Requirements
- Undergraduate student in engineering, science, and/or math course of study
- Expertise in Python for STEM applications (numpy, pandas)
- Teaching, mentorship, and/or other leadership experience
- Demonstrated excellence in communication skills, especially regarding technical concepts
- Interest and eagerness in addressing disaster response applications
Desired Skills
- Familiarity with GIS, data science, image processing, machine learning, network science, and/or optimization techniques are highly desired
- Experience with the Linux operating system
If interested in applying fill out application at the following link:
https://mit-bwsi.formstack.com/forms/beaverworks_job_application_2026
A brief resume will be needed to complete the application.
For any questions please contact bwsi-admin@mit.edu.