Student programs tied to groundbreaking research with real impact
The Rob Walton College of Global Futures is the academic unit within the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory, which is designed to transform complex systems through innovation.
The Global Futures Laboratory is the prototype for a university for the future of the planet and reimagines academia’s role in creating a more resilient world in the face of complexity and change.

Advantage to students
By partnering with the Global Futures Lab, students will make strong connections and gain valuable experience that goes beyond what can be learned in a traditional classroom setting.
The Global Futures Laboratory has over 75 units across the United States and beyond, focused on creating a future in which life thrives on a healthy planet. Learn more about how you, as a student, can start making an impact.
Flexible coursework that aligns with the latest research
Access to programs that allow for hands-on research
Collaborating with faculty on purpose-driven impact
Connections to real-world partners on projects that matter
Work with theGlobal Futures Laboratory
Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences
A 12-week research internship through the Research Experiences for Undergraduates program at the ASU Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, where students conduct hands-on scientific research, receive mentorship, participate in workshops and gain field experience.
Central Arizona–Phoenix Long-Term Ecological Research
The Central Arizona Phoenix Long-Term Ecological Research program provides hands-on research opportunities, including the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates, where students work with faculty mentors on urban ecology projects and present their findings.
Center for Biodiversity Outcomes
The Conservation Innovation Lab, embedded in the Center for Biodiversity Outcomes, engages both undergraduate and graduate students in interdisciplinary conservation research, where they work on real-world challenges under faculty mentorship.
Decision Theater
Decision Theater is an interactive data visualization and decision-support center that combines advanced analytics, modeling and immersive technology to address complex challenges. Students can participate by working as student employees on real-world projects, gaining hands-on experience in data analysis, visualization and research.
Lightworks
LightWorks is a research initiative focused on solar energy, sustainable fuel, carbon capture and energy systems. Students can participate in faculty-led research projects, joining research labs or pursuing research assistant roles. Get involved by contacting faculty leads or applying for research positions within the labs.
SolarSPELL
A program that creates solar-powered, offline digital libraries to expand access to educational content in communities without reliable internet. Students can get involved as interns, research assistants or volunteers contributing to content curation, hardware design and training development while gaining real-world experience and mentorship.
Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems
The USDA NextGen Program offers students scholarships, paid internships, professional development workshops and participation in immersive experiences like the Model USDA food policy simulation to prepare them for careers in food, agriculture and public service.
Center for Negative Carbon Emissions
CNCE Scholars is an academic and professional development initiative designed to introduce high school, undergraduate and graduate students to direct air capture technology, material design, carbon management, center operations and outreach initiatives.
Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes
The Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes offers a week-long policy immersion program called Science Outside the Lab where participants explore how science and innovation intersect by meeting policymakers and journalists, gaining insight into science policy and careers beyond the lab.
ASU Farm
Volunteering with ASU Farm is a chance to connect with the land, learn sustainable practices, and make a meaningful impact — whether you’re helping on the farm or tending the garden.
Find more opportunities
See more ASU student opportunities through the Rob Walton College of Global Futures Careers Connect portal.