15 Science Summer Internships for Undergraduates
Doing an internship is a good idea for college students because it strengthens their resumes and improves their employability after graduation. Internships provide experience in a chosen field, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge to industry problems while building technical and soft skills. They also help you expand your professional network, gain mentorship, and clarify your career goals before entering the job market full-time.
Why should I do a science summer internship in college?
A science summer internship gives you practical laboratory or research experience, exposure to advanced tools and methodologies, and a deeper understanding of how scientific discoveries move from theory to application. A structured program can provide mentorship from leading scientists and strengthen your graduate school or job applications. These opportunities often lead to recommendation letters, published research contributions, or conference presentations —key credentials that can set you apart.
After graduation, candidates with internship experience typically demonstrate stronger problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and professional readiness, giving them a measurable advantage in competitive STEM job markets. We’ve narrowed down the 15 best science summer internships for undergraduates , including both in-person and virtual opportunities !
1. Bioengineering Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (BE-SURE)
Location: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ
Stipend: Paid. Includes research budget. Amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive. 10 to 20 students
Application Deadline: February
Dates: Nine weeks between early June and early August
Eligibility: First-year, sophomore, and junior undergraduate students
The Bioengineering Summer Undergraduate Research Experience is intended for undergraduates who want hands-on research exposure at the intersection of engineering and the life sciences. During the program, you’ll join a group of students and contribute to bioengineering research projects under faculty supervision. In addition to developing technical research skills, you will receive guidance on presenting your work clearly to academic audiences and discussing scientific findings in professional settings. You will also have opportunities to learn about both academic research and industry career paths within bioengineering through structured discussions and site visits. The program includes mentorship from bioengineering faculty at Princeton University, along with organized activities and laboratory tours across campus. Through these experiences, you gain a clearer understanding of research processes, collaboration, and potential next steps in the field.
2. Ladder’s University Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies by program type | Financial aid available
Application deadline: Cohorts throughout the year, including summer
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10 – 20 hours/week, for 8–12 weeks | Open to high schoolers, undergraduates, and gap-year students
The Ladder University Internship Program is an eight-week virtual internship where you work on real projects with start-ups and corporate businesses. Founded by Harvard entrepreneurs, the program focuses on applied learning through assignments guided by start-up founders and supervisors with experience at places like Harvard Business School, McKinsey, Google, and Microsoft. You’ll develop problem-solving and project management skills, gain insight into entrepreneurial practices, and receive weekly mentorship from your manager and a Ladder Coach. The program ends with a final project presentation to strengthen your resume and professional portfolio. Apply now!
3. Princeton Neuroscience Institute Summer Internship Program
Location: Princeton, NJ
Stipend: Fully funded; includes $6,300 stipend, travel, and housing
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 10
Application Deadline: February 3
Dates: June 2 to August 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates interested in graduate studies in neuroscience who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The Princeton Neuroscience Institute Summer Internship Program provides undergraduates with the opportunity to participate in research related to neuroscience. During the internship, you’ll work alongside faculty members and graduate students on ongoing projects, gaining experience in either experimental methods or computational approaches. In addition to research work, you will take part in structured academic activities such as weekly lectures, lab meetings, and journal discussions. The program also includes sessions that cover topics like preparing for graduate school and understanding different research pathways. Hosted by the Princeton Neuroscience Institute, the internship can help you build foundational research skills and clarify whether pursuing advanced study in neuroscience aligns with your goals.
4. Stanford Summer Research Program-Amgen Scholars Program
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Stipend: $4,800
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective. Up to 38 students
Application Deadline: February 1
Dates: June 20 to August 15
Eligibility: Current undergraduate sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors enrolled in accredited four-year colleges or universities. Must have at least 3 semesters or 4 quarters of completed college coursework by the application deadline
The Stanford Summer Research Program–Amgen Scholars Program is an eight-week research opportunity that provides funding while you work on a focused project under the guidance of faculty at Stanford University. During the program, you’ll join a research group in a biological or biomedical discipline such as biochemistry, genetics, bioengineering, and immunology. You will conduct research in a laboratory setting and develop practical skills in experimental design, data collection, and analysis with support from faculty mentors and lab members. The program also includes structured activities such as workshops, faculty talks, and journal discussions to help you better understand current research and the expectations of graduate study. At the end of the program, you will present your work at a research symposium, summarizing your methods and findings to peers and faculty.
5. National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates
Location: Multiple host institutions across the U.S. (each REU Site is based at a university or research facility)
Stipend: Paid. Amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive. 8 to 10 students
Application Deadline: Between January and early March
Dates: 8 to 10 weeks in the summer. Exact dates vary by site
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents. Must be enrolled at an accredited institution and returning to undergraduate studies after the REU
The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program allows you to take part in structured research projects within a range of STEM disciplines. These projects are supported by the National Science Foundation and are hosted at specific universities or research institutions across the country. Each REU site focuses on a particular area of study. You’ll receive research training, work with a faculty mentor, and collaborate with other undergraduate participants. Depending on the site, you may conduct research in fields such as biomedical engineering, materials science, electrical engineering, and quantum computing, among others. To participate, you’ll need to apply directly to the individual REU site that aligns with your academic interests, following that institution’s specific application process and requirements.
6. Washington University ENDURE Program
Location: St. Louis, MO
Stipend: Fully funded; $7,000 (pre-tax) stipend and housing provided
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Application Deadline: February 2
Dates: May 23 to August 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates from U.S. institutions, with an interest in neuroscience research
The ENDURE program at Washington University in St. Louis provides undergraduates with a structured summer research experience focused on preparation for neuroscience Ph.D. study. During the program, you’ll participate in laboratory research, complete academic coursework, and receive mentorship from faculty and research staff. Supported by the National Institutes of Health Blueprint ENDURE initiative and the university, the program may offer continued support for up to two years. This can include funding to attend the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, where you can engage with the broader research community. Throughout the experience, you will work within a cohort of peers and faculty mentors, developing research skills and gaining familiarity with expectations for doctoral training. At the conclusion of the summer, you present your research findings at a closing symposium.
7. Shoals Marine Laboratory Undergraduate Research Group
Location: Shoals Marine Laboratory, Appledore Island, ME and NH
Stipend: Paid. Amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive. Small cohort sizes
Application Deadline: Typically February or March
Dates: 3 to 10 weeks between late May and August
Eligibility: Current undergraduate college students. One internship application per year
The undergraduate research group program at Shoals Marine Laboratory is intended for students who want summer research experience in marine biology and related disciplines. During the program, you will work with scientists and research staff on projects, which may involve field observations, data collection, experiments, and ongoing monitoring efforts. The length of your participation depends on the specific research project and field of study. Previous research areas have included intertidal ecology, marine mammal studies, physical oceanography, seabird ecology and conservation, and gull population biology. Depending on the project, you may engage with topics that range from biological research and environmental monitoring to sustainable engineering practices and science education initiatives.
8. Johns Hopkins Diversity Summer Internship Program
Location: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
Stipend: $3,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely selective. About 25 to 30 interns
Application Deadline: February 1
Dates: May 31 to July 27
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who have completed at least two years of study before the program starts. Must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
This eight-week internship provides undergraduates with structured research experience in biomedical science and public health. During the program, you will work on a defined research project under the supervision of an experienced researcher, complete regular assignments, and prepare a research paper based on your findings. At the end of the internship, you’ll present your work at a poster session. Previous projects have explored topics such as substance use and public health outcomes, protein engineering and immunology, preclinical models in pulmonary medicine, and the relationship between social determinants of health and cardiovascular disease. In addition to research training, the program incorporates professional development activities focused on critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and leadership across diverse perspectives.
9. U.S. Department of Energy Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships
Location: DOE national laboratories and research facilities across the U.S.
Stipend: $650 per week
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive. 80 to 100 or more interns per lab
Application Deadline: Summer January 7. Fall May. Spring September
Dates: 10 weeks from May to August. Fall and spring cohorts are also available
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who have completed at least one semester or recent graduates within 2 years, are 18 or older, are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and have completed at least 6 STEM credit hours and 12 total undergraduate credit hours
The Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI) is a practical option if you’re an undergraduate or recent graduate in a STEM field or interested in science policy. It places you at a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory, where you’ll work on a defined research project under the guidance of a scientist. You will gain exposure to advanced equipment and research environments while building technical and professional skills. The program also gives you a chance to connect with researchers and other students, which can be useful for future academic or career plans. SULI runs either as a 10-week summer internship or a semester-long placement, and is a paid opportunity.
10. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Location: Cold Spring Harbor, NY
Stipend: Fully funded; $7,000 stipend; housing costs partially covered
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Application Deadline: January 15
Dates: June 8 to August 8
Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores and juniors enrolled in a 4-year institution
The Undergraduate Research Program at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory offers undergraduates an opportunity to participate in summer research within an active laboratory setting. During the program, you’ll join a research group and work on a defined project in areas such as molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, plant biology, or quantitative biology. You will gain experience using shared research facilities and take part in instructional workshops, including sessions focused on bioinformatics and computational neuroscience. The program also includes seminars addressing current research topics, research ethics, and career planning. Throughout the summer, you’ll develop skills in scientific communication by preparing abstracts, delivering presentations, and sharing your findings at a final symposium attended by members of the laboratory community.
11. Georgia Tech Summer Undergraduate Research in Engineering
Location: Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Stipend: $6,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely selective. About 20 students
Application Deadline: February 15
Dates: May 17 to July 24
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors with a GPA of 2.75 or higher who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and plan to apply to graduate programs
The summer undergraduate research program in engineering is intended for students who are considering graduate studies in engineering or science. Over the course of 10 weeks, you will work with a faculty member on a research project in computing, engineering, or a related scientific field. The program includes weekly sessions focused on professional development and graduate school preparation. You will also have opportunities to attend industry visits, participate in collaborative activities, and receive guidance from graduate student mentors. By the end of the program, you are expected to draft a personal statement and present your research both orally and in a poster format at the final research symposium.
12. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
Location: National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, and Boulder, CO
Stipend: $7,810 plus limited housing assistance up to $4,500 and travel support up to $500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive. 150 to 200 undergraduate students per summer
Application Deadline: January 26
Dates: May 27 to August 7 and June 8 to August 21 (11 weeks). June 8 to August 7 (9 weeks)
Eligibility: Undergraduate students age 18 or older who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The National Institute of Standards and Technology offers a summer undergraduate research fellowship for students seeking hands-on experience in STEM research. Over 11 weeks, you will work in a laboratory setting and receive a stipend. You will collaborate with professional researchers on active projects, gaining experience with research methods and processes. You will have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing technology development and research. Past projects have included work on MRI technology, studies of pharmaceuticals, and the creation of nanoscale devices.
13. Broad Summer Research Program
Location: Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge and Boston, MA
Stipend: $5,400
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive. Approximately 15 to 20 students per year
Application Deadline: January 11
Dates: June 1 to July 31
Eligibility: Students majoring in physical, biological, or computer sciences, engineering, or mathematics with a minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and legally authorized to work in the U.S.
The Broad Summer Research Program provides undergraduates with the opportunity to gain experience in biomedical research while preparing for graduate studies. Over 9 weeks, you will work on computational or experimental projects in areas such as oncology, infectious diseases, and computational biology. The program includes guidance on exploring scientific careers, developing professional skills, and applying to graduate school. You will also practice scientific communication and, at the end of the program, present your research through both oral and poster presentations.
14. Rutgers Research Intensive Summer Experience (RISE)
Location: Rutgers University campus, New Brunswick, NJ
Stipend: $6,000 to $7,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive. 50 students
Application Deadline: February 15
Dates: 10 weeks in the summer from June to August
Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores, juniors, or non-graduating seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
The Research Intensive Summer Experience offers undergraduates the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience while preparing for graduate school. Over 10 weeks, you will work as a research assistant in a professional laboratory and develop practical skills in scientific research. The program includes opportunities for professional development, networking, and improving scientific communication. At the end of the program, you will present your research findings in a poster at the final symposium.
15. Microsoft Undergraduate Research Internship in Computing
Location: Microsoft Research labs in North America. Redmond, WA. New York City, NY. New England region
Stipend: Paid. Amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely competitive. 3 to 5 students
Application Deadline: Mid-February
Dates: 12 weeks between May or June and August
Eligibility: Rising juniors or seniors in a bachelor’s program in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, information science, or a related major with at least two years of programming experience and coursework in calculus and probability, or statistics, or machine learning, or equivalent training
The Microsoft Undergraduate Internship program provides undergraduates with experience in computing research. Over 12 weeks, you will work in a Microsoft research lab alongside professional researchers on ongoing projects. Research areas may include artificial intelligence, economics, mathematics, and algorithms, among others. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with engineers, designers, doctoral researchers, and other students while exploring career pathways in computing.
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