NASA is seeking applications from U.S. graduate students for the agency's Space Technology Research Fellowships.

The research grants, worth as much as $74,000 per year, will coincide with the start of the 2015 fall academic term.

Applications will be accepted from students pursuing or planning to pursue master's or doctorate degrees in relevant space technology disciplines at accredited U.S. universities.

The grants will sponsor U.S. graduate student researchers who show significant potential to contribute to NASA's strategic space technology objectives through their studies.

To date, NASA has awarded grants to 247 student researchers from 79 universities located in 35 states and one U.S. territory.

"One of the most important challenges to our continued leadership and advancement of space technology is the assurance that we harness the innovation and technology capabilities from our American universities," said Michael Gazarik, associate administrator for Space Technology at NASA Headquarters in Washington.

"These grants provide one vehicle to tap into the enormous talents of graduate students working at universities to advance the development of future space technologies."

Sponsored by NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate, the fellowships are improving America's technological competitiveness by providing the nation with a pipeline of innovative space technologies.

The deadline for submitting applications is Nov. 13. For more information and instructions on how to submit applications please go here.