BRAAG is part of the UC-HBCU initiave that seeks to improve diversity and strengthen University of California (UC) graduate programs by investing in relationships between UC faculty and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
BRAAG provides a paid summer undergraduate research opportunity in Geosciences and related fields at UC Merced. The eight week program includes hands-on training in research, research communication, and professional development.
Scholars will be provided housing and meals on campus and will join a community of undergraduate students supported by other similar programs organized by the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC).
Applications are now open for Summer 2026! To apply, submit
The deadline is February 28, 2026
BRAAG scholars work in cutting-edge research labs at UC Merced
Dr. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe
We investigate how soil stores carbon and cycles nutrients, focusing on how climate change and land management affect these critical ecosystem services.
Dr. Teamrat A. Ghezzehei
The physics of living soils through field experiments, advanced measurements, and machine learning to address climate change and sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Rebecca Ryals
Sustainable agricultural practices that improve soil health, increase crop resilience, and reduce environmental impacts in California farming systems.
Dr. Adeyemi Adebiyi
Understanding the impacts of atmospheric particles, like mineral dust and smoke aerosols, on our environment and the climate.
Dr. Claire Lukens
We explore microbial communities in soil ecosystems to understand how microscopic life shapes nutrient cycling and plant-soil interactions.
Dr. Xuan Zhang
Engaged in interdisciplinary approach to tackle fundamental questions related to air pollution and climate change.
Seven outstanding scholars joined us from HBCUs across the nation
Howard University
Host Lab:
Soil Physics Lab
Using Convolutional Neural Networks for Food Classification
TBD
Host Lab:
Agroecology Lab
Impact of Biochar and Compost on Soil Organic Matter Stability - A Carbon and Nitrogen Isotopic Analysis in California's Winter Wheat Systems
Kentucky State University
Host Lab:
Atmospheric Chemistry Lab
Examining Extreme Smoke and Dust Pollution Cases in California's Central Valley
Tennessee State University
Host Lab:
Soil Biogeochemistry Lab
Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Nutrient Contents in Soil from the Kings River Experimental Watersheds (KREW) After Forest Management
Kentucky State University
Host Lab:
Soil Physics Lab
Investigating long-term impacts of cover cropping and no-tillage practices on soil structure and aggregate stability
Kentucky State University
Host Lab:
Soil Physics Lab
Rapid Soil Microbial Response to Wetting Events
Kentucky State University
Host Lab:
Environmental Chemistry Lab
Testing storage and analysis of PAH (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) from California wildfire smoke
TBD
Host Lab:
Soil Physics Lab
Kentucky State University
Host Lab:
Soil Biogeochemistry Lab
Rapid Soil Microbial Response to Wetting Events
TBD
Host Lab:
Agroecology Lab
Comparing Nitrogen Dynamics in the Alley and Berm in an Almond Orchard
Howard University
Host Lab:
Atmospheric Chemistry Lab
The Impact of Burning Incense on Indoor Air Quality
Tennessee State University
Host Lab:
Soil Physics Lab
Using The Application of Biochar Improves the Water Retention in Soil
Howard University
Host Lab:
Agroecology Lab
Microbial Controls on Methane Emissions from Dairy Manure Co-Composted with Different Biochars