20 Best Science Internships
For college students looking to enter competitive fields, science internships play a crucial role, offering more than just a resume boost. They provide practical and professional experience while also helping you clarify your career goals and build a professional network.
A hands-on experience like an internship is particularly valuable as it allows you to apply your classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, preparing you for the inevitable future. For students pursuing STEM fields, your career thrives on observation, experimentation, and continuous learning. What better way to get a sneak peek of your career in STEM than participating in science internships?
In this blog, we have put together a list of the 20 best science internships, carefully chosen for their learning outcomes, structure, and relevance. Many also feature inter-disciplinary tracks, combining science with data, engineering, or healthcare.
1. Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) Internship Program (HIP)
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge & Boston, MA
Cohort Size: Approx 35 students
Dates: June to August (10 weeks)
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents, at least 18 years old, enrolled in a credited US institution or university
Stipend: Paid
During the Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) Internship Program (HIP), you’ll get to work in Harvard-affiliated research labs, engaging in hands-on stem cell research, learning lab techniques, and data analysis. To further improve the experience, you’ll also be paired with a mentor (a PhD or postdoc) and will get to attend site visits and weekly seminars covering stem cell science and career paths in biomedical research.
At the end of the program, you’ll present your findings at the closing symposium. HSCI focuses on your research exposure, skill building, and collaboration within a professional science community.
2. Ladder’s University Program
Location: Remote
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Dates: Multiple 8-12-week cohorts throughout the year; the summer cohort starts on June 2
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort; May 11 for the summer cohort
Eligibility: Students who can work for 5-10 hours/week
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Ladder’s University Program offers 8-week, virtual science internships where you’ll get to work with high-growth start-ups and nonprofits around the world on meaningful projects aligned with your interest in the fields of AI, healthtech, marketing, journalism, or consulting. As a participant, you’ll be paired with a manager at the start-up and a dedicated Ladder Coach who provides additional mentorship. Through weekly check-ins, real project ownership, and a final presentation, you’ll build practical experience, gain industry insights, engage with professionals in the field, and receive instant feedback.
3. Field Data Collection Internship by Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
Location: INL, Idaho Falls, Idaho
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: 10-16 weeks; start and end dates vary based on project and student availability
Application Deadline: May 20
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate student in Business Management or Construction Management at an accredited U.S. college/university with a minimum 3.0 GPA
Stipend: $26.16 – $31.47 per hour + paid holidays
The Field Data Collection Internship at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) offers undergraduate students a chance to contribute to real-world energy infrastructure planning. Your work will involve gathering and managing field data with GPS-enabled tools, developing survey questionnaires, and following strict documentation protocols with the Campus Development Office (CDO). Additionally, you will assist in creating maps, reports, and records for various ongoing CDO initiatives. This role is structured around a 9x80 work schedule on-site at Idaho Falls, with full-time summer hours (up to 40/week) and flexibility as needed. Most placements last 10-16 weeks and may offer university credit, depending on school policies.
4. Fred Hutch REACH (Research Equity Advancement for Cancer with HBCUs) Internship Program
Location: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: June 23 – August 8
Application Deadline: Not mentioned
Eligibility: Undergraduate and recent post-baccalaureate students
Stipend: Paid
Specially designed for undergraduates from HBCUs, REACH provides a structured, mentored experience in cancer research where you will work full-time alongside faculty members and research staff. You’ll work in areas including molecular biology, epidemiology, and data analysis. Additionally, you’ll attend seminars, workshops, and career panels that cover topics like graduate school preparation and scientific communication. A standout aspect of REACH is the opportunity to present research at the end-of-program symposium, where you share findings with peers, mentors, and the broader scientific community. The internship also covers your housing and travel.
5. Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)
Location: REU site based in the U.S. or a foreign location
Cohort Size: Groups of 10
Dates: Depends on the internship you are applying for
Application Deadline: Depends on the internship you are applying for
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Stipend: Paid
Funded by the US National Science Foundation, the REU program offers paid summer research positions for college students in STEM fields. As a participant, you join small research groups at universities and labs across the U.S. and abroad, working closely with faculty and mentors. Marine science, chemistry, cloud security, sustainable energy, and paleontology are a few of the areas you can choose from. Opportunities include lab work, data analysis, and a chance to present findings.
6. U.S. CMS Summer Undergraduate Research Internship Program
Location: U.S. CMS institution sites
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: May 27 – August 2
Application Deadline: December 15 – February 1
Eligibility: Full-time undergrad student enrolled at an accredited U.S. institution and at least 18 years of age
Stipend: $600
This program is a 10-week paid opportunity in the fields of physics, engineering, computer science, maths, and chemistry. As a participant, you will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects related to the CMS experiment at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider. Throughout the internship, you will gain experience in computing, instrumentation, professional training, and STEM career development under the mentorship of faculty, scientists, and researchers from over 50 U.S. institutions.
7. Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI) by Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
Location: Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, New Jersey
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; Depends on application volume and funding
Dates: 10 weeks from June to August (summer term)
Application Deadline: October 16 – January 8 (summer term)
Eligibility: Currently enrolled full-time or have recently graduated with an undergraduate degree; GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; 18 or older; more info here
Stipend: $650/week
Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) offers science internships for college students in the summer, fall, and spring. During the program, you will attend lectures, visit sites, and work full-time on projects related to plasma physics and fusion energy while being guided by lab scientists or engineers. At the end of the course, you will be expected to complete a research paper and present your work. A weekly stipend is provided with housing and travel support depending on the term and location.
Please note that PPPL’s intensive plasma physics course will only be available in the summer term.
8. Overlook Summer Internship Program
Location: Overlook Medical Center, New Jersey
Acceptance Rate: Moderate selectivity
Dates: June 2 – 26
Application Deadline: December 15 – January 15
Eligibility: Completed at least 2 years of college by the time the program begins
Cost/Stipend: Administrative cost of $500; no stipend mentioned
For those looking into medical careers, the OSIP allows you to shadow physicians through rotations in hospitals, operating rooms, and private practices. While mornings begin with candid talks led by professionals about lifestyle and field-specific realities, Friday’s focus is on peer discussions and reflection. You’ll also engage in mentorships, submit daily evaluations, and receive a recommendation letter from the program’s medical director. Through this course, you will form an idea of a career in medicine, which will help you make informed decisions for your future.
9. Mathematical Sciences Graduate Internship by the U.S. National Science Foundation
Location: U.S. National Labs
Cohort Size: 40
Dates: 10 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: January 31
Eligibility: Current graduate students pursuing doctoral degrees in mathematics, statistics, or applied mathematics with a 3.0+ GPA
Stipend: $1,200/week
This program bridges the gap between academic learning and practical impact, and focuses on applying mathematical theories to real-world problems beyond simple academia. As a participant, you’ll be able to work on collaborative projects, often alongside scientists, and gain experience in communication, research application, and teamwork. Additionally, you’ll get to engage in site-specific initiatives and present your findings.
10. URA-Fermilab Undergraduate Women in STEM Internship
Location: Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: May 27 – August 2
Application Deadline: November 15 – February 15
Eligibility: Women majoring in science and engineering from underrepresented groups; U.S. citizens; more info here
Stipend: $23/hour
The URA-Fermilab Undergraduate Women in STEM Internship program offers 10-week science internships and research opportunities for women in underrepresented groups pursuing STEM degrees. You’ll get to work on real-world projects in areas like particle physics, AI, and superconducting technology under the guidance of Fermilab professionals. You’ll also attend lectures, present posters, submit research reports, interact with professionals, and attend social events! The experience ends with a two-day science policy seminar in Washington, DC.
11. Cornell Geopaths Geoscience Learning Ecosystem (CorGGLE) Summer Internship Program
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: June 8 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: College students who have completed at least 2 semesters in college and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. More info here
Stipend: $6,300
Through structured professional development and faculty-guided projects, this program introduces undergraduates to geoscience research and careers. You’ll get to work closely with Cornell faculty and staff in areas such as climate change, environmental science, energy, water resources, remote sensing, and natural hazards. As part of the program, each student has to develop a research question that they need to carry out under the mentorship of a trained faculty advisor.
You’ll also attend weekly luncheons, skill-building workshops, and career talks that will prepare you for your future academic and professional opportunities. You’ll visit sites, including Niagara Falls and New York City, for a hands-on experience of the real-world impact of geoscience work. Housing, meals, and travel expenses are covered by the university, and you’ll have access to Cornell's labs, community, and computing spaces.
12. Academic Internship Program (AIP) by the National Institutes of Health
Location: NIH campuses
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Dates: Science Internships occur during the academic year, with part-time or full-time options depending on student availability and lab needs
Application Deadline: Varies based on internship
Eligibility: U.S. citizen or permanent resident; enrolled full-time in a college
Stipend: Paid
The NIH’s Academic Internship Program (AIP) offers science internships that give you the chance to work alongside top researchers and join research groups within the Intramural Research Program, working on biomedical, behavioural, or social science studies. Students from the fields of biology, engineering, psychology, chemistry, and computer science are welcome to participate.
Beyond lab work, you will be able to join professional development sessions, receive academic and career guidance, take part in well-being workshops, benefit from structured mentorship, and collaborate with leading scientists. This program is for anyone seeking hands-on experience while pursuing studies with support systems that keep academic goals front and center.
13. Amazon’s Applied Science Internship
Location: Amazon, Seattle, WA
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: May – August (12 weeks)
Application Deadline: Typically November
Eligibility: At least 18 years of age; enrolled in a Master’s degree program
Stipend: $129,400/year to $212,800/year
This internship is for you if you have a keen interest in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, or automated reasoning. You will get to work on real-world problems using large-scale datasets and will be involved in building end-to-end systems that support Amazon Science.
During the internship, you will sharpen your skills in programming languages and gain experience in experimental research, system development, and collaboration across technical teams. You’ll work on projects in developing algorithms, improving AI models, or contributing to new technical solutions. Additionally, you’ll collaborate with senior scientists, present your work, and receive guidance on publishing in academic venues.
14. NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement
Location: NASA centers and facilities across the United States
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Dates: Multiple internships throughout the year
Application Deadline: Fall: May 16 | Spring: September 12 | Summer: February 27
Eligibility: U.S. citizens with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; enrolled in college full-time or part-time (minimum of 6 semester hours); at least 16 years of age
Stipend: Paid and unpaid internships available
NASA offers several science internships for those curious about science, space, technology, engineering, and math. You’ll get to contribute to real NASA missions, including planetary exploration and earth science, and work alongside research scientists, engineers, and mission specialists. You’ll also gain exposure in technical skills and professional tools, and under the guidance of a mentor, you’ll work on projects like coding, data analysis, lab research, and engineering design.
Additionally, you’ll get to participate in regular briefings, networking events, educational activities hosted at NASA centers, visit labs, tour mission control facilities, and collaborate with experts across disciplines. NASA has designed this program specifically to help students build career readiness, strengthen resumes, understand the broader role of science in public service, and prepare students for future roles in research, engineering, and space exploration.
Location: Varies by year and position; placements have included Yosemite, Everglades, Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, Zion, and more. Remote options available
Cohort Size: 75
Dates: 3 months to 1 year | Summer: May to September | Winter: October to April
Application Deadline: Summer: early December to mid-January | Winter: early May to mid-June
Eligibility: Undergraduates, graduates, and early career professionals above 18; U.S. citizens
Stipend: Paid
The Scientists in Parks program places students, recent grads, and early career professionals in full-time, paid positions across the U.S. National Park System. Roles majorly focus on natural resource management and vary widely in scope—mapping dunes, monitoring sea turtle nests, and the like under the guidance of National Park Service mentors. You’ll be involved in projects like data collection, environmental surveys, field mapping, and ecological research. Additionally, you’ll get to present your findings at professional conferences.
While most positions are in parks, a few are remote. Any role under the program qualifies as AmeriCorps service terms and offers benefits including a living stipend, loan deferment, an education award, and sometimes, even housing!
16. Summer Internship Program (SIP) by the National Cancer Institute
Location: On-campus at the National Cancer Institute; Various U.S. locations
Cohort Size: Varies by research group
Dates: 8 weeks between May and September
Application Deadline: February
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; At least 18 years old and enrolled at least half-time in high school (seniors only), college, university, graduate, or professional school, or accepted into a graduate program
Stipend: Stipend amount depends on academic level
The National Cancer Institute’s Summer Internship Program (SIP) offers college students the chance to spend 8-12 weeks working alongside researchers in areas like cancer biology, epidemiology, genetics, behavioral science, and biostatistics. Under the guidance of a principal investigator at NCI, you will gain hands-on lab experience and contribute to ongoing research.
The program also includes formal learning through seminars, group meetings, and lectures hosted by NIH, providing exposure to cutting-edge work across biomedical fields. Additionally, you will attend the NIH Summer Seminar Series and present your work during the NIH Poster Day—an opportunity to build communication skills and get feedback from the scientific community. You will also be encouraged to reach out to investigators whose work aligns with your interests, as selection is decentralized (each scientist selects and funds their own intern).
17. Woods Hole Summer Student Fellowship
Location: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: 10-12 weeks
Application Deadline: February 5
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who completed their junior year at university or are in college; should be in the science or engineering fields; more info here
Stipend: $680/week
Hosted by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) and the U.S. Geological Survey's Coastal and Marine Science Center, this program gives you the chance to work under the guidance of a research advisor to develop a project. You’ll gain practical lab and field experience, attend lectures covering key topics in oceanography, take part in seminars and workshops, and participate in an ocean sampling cruise where you learn data collection and instrumentation techniques. Additionally, you’ll get access to WHOI's advanced facilities and network with over 100 scientists.
18. Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship Program at NREL
Location: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, Colorado
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Dates: Multiple terms in a year
Application Deadline: Varies based on term; May 21 for the fall term
Eligibility: Currently enrolled full-time students attending an accredited community college, 2-year colleges, and 4-year institutions; more info here
Stipend: $18.25/hour
If you are passionate about renewable energy and energy efficiency, this program allows you to research fields of solar, wind, hydrogen, fuel cells, energy analysis, and scientific computing—among many others. You will be assigned 40 hours on research projects where you gain practical lab experiences and develop technical and professional skills. You’ll also receive mentorship from NREL researchers and attend workshops, lab tours, and talks from experts to deepen your understanding of current developments in the energy sector.
19. AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellows
Location: Various media organizations across the U.S.
Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive
Dates: June 9 – August 15
Application Deadline: October 1 – January 1
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or valid visa holders enrolled in an undergraduate course; graduates or postdoctoral trainees
Stipend: $10,000
As an AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellow, you will be placed in various media organizations, including WIRED and National Public Radio, where you will apply your academic knowledge to research, write, and report on current scientific news. Your tasks will involve making complex topics more accessible to the public and collaborating with journalists to understand how science is covered in the media. You’ll also learn how to translate technical subjects into engaging content for a general audience and build a network of professionals in both scientific and media fields.
20. Internship Program by National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Location: Federal agencies across the United States
Acceptance Rate: Competitive
Dates: Varies by agency
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: A current student in high school, college, vocational, trade, or graduate programs; Enrolled at least half-time in an accredited institution; A minimum of 3.0 GPA; At least 16 years old
Stipend: Paid
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Internship Program gives students from high school to graduate level the chance to work within federal agencies while enrolled in a school or university. The program offers paid roles where you gain hands-on experience in fields that match your academic focus. Positions may be part-time or full-time and can last for up to a year or continue indefinitely. You’ll get to work on meaningful projects under the supervision of professionals, build workplace skills, understand federal careers, and apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. You can expect structured support through mentorship, exposure to agency operations, and chances to contribute to ongoing initiatives.