AthenaK Summer School
July 7-17, 2026 — Penn State University Campus

Instructors


Alan Lam Photo

Alan Lam

Penn State University

David Radice Photo

David Radice

Penn State University

Drummond Fielding Photo

Drummond Fielding

New York University

Eve Ostriker Photo

Eve Ostriker

Princeton University

Goni Halevi Photo

Goni Halevi

Illinois Institute of Technology

Jacob Fields Photo

Jacob Fields

Institute for Advanced Study

James Stone Photo

James Stone

Institute for Advanced Study

Lizhong Zhang Photo

Lizhong Zhang

Institute for Advanced Study

Zhaohuan Zhu Photo

Zhaohuan Zhu

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

About


AthenaK Summer School 2026 is an intensive 2-week program where early career scientists will learn to apply the AthenaK code to their own research. You will team up with 2-3 other participants based on shared interests and tackle a project together with guidance from our instructors.

We will keep things flexible with morning lectures covering cutting-edge computational astrophysics, group lunches, and late-afternoon sessions where you can share your progress and connect with other participants. Most of your time will be spent working hands-on with your team in a collaborative research environment.

Penn State will provide office space and computing resources for all participants, plus accommodation. While most people will cover their own travel costs, we have some funding available to help out students who need it - especially those from smaller or minority-serving institutions.

The goal is to build the foundations and connections you need to continue advancing your work when you return to your home institutions.

Code of Conduct


The AthenaK Summer School is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and harassment-free environment for all participants. We follow the Eberly College of Science Code of Mutual Respect and Cooperation, which establishes expectations for respectful behavior and collaboration.

All participants are expected to treat each other with dignity and respect, creating an environment where everyone can learn and contribute effectively.

Apply to AthenaK Summer School


Applications Opening Soon

Applications will open later this year. Application deadline: February 15, 2026