15 STEM Internships for Undergraduates in Iowa
Internships are extremely valuable for college students because they bridge the gap between classroom lectures and the working world. By taking on an internship, you gain practical experience in a field you are genuinely interested in, which not only helps you confirm your career choice but also builds everyday workplace skills. This exposure adds significant weight to your resume and overall profile, proving to future employers that you know how to apply what you have learned outside of a school setting. Ultimately, having this kind of professional background makes you stand out in a crowded job market, improving your odds of landing a job right after graduation.
Why should I do a STEM internship in college?
As a participant in a STEM internship, you will gain exposure to industry standards, tools, and methodologies. This gives you a concrete understanding of how your education translates to professional environments. Many programs offer formal mentorship from scientists and engineers who can provide guidance not only on technical matters but also on your career trajectory and professional development. If you are an undergraduate student interested in STEM and based in Iowa, internships can be a worthwhile way to explore the field in great detail. These experiences provide opportunities to build your resume, gain practical experience, and establish meaningful connections within your chosen discipline.
To help you get started, we've put together 15 STEM internships for undergraduates in Iowa.
1. Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI) at Ames National Laboratory
Location: Ames National Laboratory, Ames, IA
Stipend: $650/week; housing assistance $170/week or $250/week; up to $500 travel reimbursement
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; cohort size varies
Dates: Summer: June 1 – August 7 (10 weeks); Fall: Late August – mid-December (16 weeks); Spring: Early January – early May (16 weeks)
Application Deadline: Summer: January 7; Fall: May 20; Spring: October
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduate students; U.S. Citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents; 18 years of age or older; minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale; 12 total undergraduate credits (6 in STEM) and at least one completed semester
In this program, you will work alongside PhD-level scientists and engineers on research projects addressing critical challenges in energy, computing, national security, and advanced materials. You will be guided by established mentors within a collaborative laboratory environment, gaining exposure to cutting-edge equipment and computational tools. You will contribute to research initiatives that often result in peer-reviewed publications, giving you the opportunity to see your work influence the broader scientific community. The program emphasizes your professional development through research talks, facility tours, and networking with scientists working on projects at the frontiers of discovery. Many SULI participants transition to full-time positions at national laboratories.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25%; 70–100 students per session
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Summer, Fall, Winter, and Spring
Application Deadline: Varies as per cohort; Summer (May), Fall (September), Winter (November), and Spring (January)
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks
The Ladder University Internship Program is a fully virtual, eight-week experience that pairs you with global startups. It specifically covers STEM topics, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, deep tech, environmental science, and healthcare technology. During the internship, you will tackle real-world organizational projects and build technical tools like machine learning models. You will also analyze complex datasets and formally present your final deliverables to company leadership. The program features a dual-mentorship structure, which pairs you with both a startup manager and a dedicated Ladder Coach. By completing these tasks, you will build essential skills in critical thinking, time management, technical analysis, and professional communication. Apply now!
3. Community College Internships (CCI) at Ames National Laboratory
Location: Ames National Laboratory, Ames, IA
Stipend: $650/week; housing assistance $170/week or $250/week; up to $500 travel reimbursement
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; typically 5–15 students per term
Dates: Summer: June 1–August 7 (10 weeks); Fall: Late August/September – December (10–16 weeks)
Application Deadline: Summer: January 7; Fall: May 20
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduate students; U.S. Citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents; 18 years of age or older; minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale; 12 total undergraduate credits (6 in STEM) and at least one completed semester
This program specifically serves community college students, removing barriers that often prevent two-year institution students from accessing national laboratory research opportunities. You will engage in technical research projects under the mentorship of scientists and technicians who are leaders in their fields, developing practical skills directly applicable to your community college coursework. The internship structure combines laboratory research experience with professional development workshops focused on career preparation and advanced technical training. You will interact regularly with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and faculty members, gaining insight into various career pathways within STEM fields.
4. REU for Pre-service STEM Teachers (Research Experience for Undergraduates)
Location: Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Stipend: $5,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; ~10 students
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 20
Eligibility: Pre-service STEM education majors from any U.S. college or university; completed at least one year of college; enrolled in a STEM teaching program
This program bridges research experience with teacher preparation, allowing you to develop the expertise needed to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. Your research experience involves four days weekly of field and laboratory work under faculty mentorship, complemented by one day focused on professional development with master teachers who exemplify excellent STEM instruction. You will conduct original research in chemistry, environmental sciences, engineering, or biology while simultaneously exploring how to translate your learning into engaging classroom activities. The program culminates in presenting your research findings at the RegenPGC Annual Meeting and the Iowa Farm Progress Show, giving you visibility within the agricultural and scientific communities.
5. Summer Undergraduate Research (BSURF) at the University of Iowa
Location: University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Stipend: $4,250 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; ~10–15 students
Dates: May 26 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 24
Eligibility: Undergraduates who have completed at least two years of college in a biological science or related major; not currently enrolled at the University of Iowa; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
In this internship, you will conduct research in the laboratory of a faculty member specializing in structural biology, genetics, developmental biology, or molecular biology, working independently on projects designed to answer contemporary scientific questions. Your research experience includes weekly enrichment seminars and workshops focused on graduate school preparation and career development in biomedical sciences, helping you understand pathways to advanced study. You will present your research findings at the University of Iowa Summer Undergraduate Research Conference, where you will engage directly with the broader university community and other undergraduate researchers. The program intentionally fosters a cohort experience, with social events and networking opportunities.
6. REU Computing for Health and Well-being at the University of Iowa
Location: University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
Stipend: $7,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; approximately 10 students
Dates: May 25 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 16
Eligibility: Undergraduate students majoring in Computer Science or related fields; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; graduating in fall; have done some coursework in CS
In this internship, you will join a faculty mentor's interdisciplinary research group working on projects at the intersection of computing and health improvement, ranging from data science applications to software development for medical devices. The 10-week program structures your research participation alongside a data science bootcamp designed to build technical skills in contemporary computing tools and methodologies. Your research experience includes a career development workshop series addressing professional pathways in healthcare technology, with guest speakers from industry and academic institutions. You will collaborate with other undergraduate researchers, graduate students, and faculty members, building the collaborative networks essential to success in contemporary STEM careers.
7. Iowa STEM Internship Program
Location: Multiple Iowa-based businesses with STEM internship placements across the state
Stipend: Minimum $14.50/hour; Iowa Workforce Development matching funds up to $5,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; up to 10 students
Dates: Summer: 8 weeks between June and August; Semester: Minimum 14 weeks
Application Deadline: Varies by employer
Eligibility: Undergraduate students at Iowa community colleges, private colleges, or regent universities; graduating within 1–2 years; have a declared major in a STEM field
This state-supported program directly connects you with Iowa businesses eager to develop future STEM talent through substantive, paid internship experiences. You will work in roles aligned with your STEM major in areas including engineering, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, information technology, and environmental science. The program's structure ensures you receive meaningful professional responsibility rather than clerical or menial tasks, with your work directly contributing to business operations and innovation. Employer participation indicates commitment to your professional development, as companies receive state matching funds specifically designated to enhance intern learning and mentorship. Many Iowa employers use this program as a pipeline for full-time hiring, with successful interns often receiving job offers upon graduation.
8. Informal STEM Education Internship (Iowa Space Grant Consortium)
Location: Science Center of Iowa (Des Moines), Putnam Museum & Science Center (Davenport), National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (Dubuque), The Iowa Children's Museum (Coralville), or Grout Museum District (Waterloo)
Stipend: $6,560
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; 5 students
Dates: Typically 8 weeks, mid-June through early August
Application Deadline: February 20
Eligibility: Full-time enrollment at Drake, Iowa State University, University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa, DMACC, Loras, Morningside, or Simpson College; graduation no earlier than spring next year; U.S. citizens; majoring in STEM or education disciplines; minimum 3.0 GPA
In this internship, you will participate in or lead programming related to NASA and aerospace science while simultaneously developing and delivering educational activities tailored to each affiliate's audience and mission. Your mentor will provide targeted experiences, understanding, and application of effective science communication and STEM education principles. You will contribute to program development that might range from interactive exhibits to demonstrations and educational workshops, allowing you to see how you can impact public scientific literacy. The program intentionally recruits from underrepresented groups, recognizing that diverse perspectives strengthen science communication and informal education.
9. George Washington Carver Summer Research Internship Program (Iowa State University)
Location: Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; approximately 20–25 undergraduates
Dates: Late May to Late July
Application Deadline: Early February
Eligibility: Undergraduate students; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (4.0 scale)
In this internship, you will work in research laboratories under the mentorship of CALS faculty members and graduate assistants, engaging in original research in areas ranging from agricultural innovation to food security to sustainable engineering. Your research experience extends beyond laboratory work, with weekly cultural events, professional development seminars, and educational workshops designed to build your scientific confidence and community. You will prepare a research report, poster presentation, and oral presentation, developing scientific communication skills essential to STEM careers. The program intentionally builds a cohort experience among interns, recognizing that peer support strengthens persistence and success in STEM pathways.
10. MoSAIc (Multiscale Sensing Actuation and Imaging) Program at Iowa State University
Location: Iowa State University Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ames, IA
Stipend: Approximately $6,000 – $7,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; typically 10 students per summer cycle
Dates: Late May to early August (10-week program)
Application Deadline: Early March
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduate students; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; 18+
In this program, you will conduct summer research in a world-class mechanical engineering laboratory studying advanced sensing, actuation, and imaging technologies. Your research project will involve designing and testing systems with applications ranging from biomedical devices to advanced manufacturing equipment. You will work alongside graduate students and faculty conducting funded research and participate in ongoing projects. The program emphasizes your intellectual development through structured mentoring, lab meetings, and collaborative problem-solving within your research group. You will present your research findings through posters and talks to the mechanical engineering department and the university community.
11. Summer Internship in Bioinformatics – Iowa Institute of Human Genetics
Location: University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA)
Stipend: $5,768
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; typically small and selective
Dates: June 1 – July 24
Application Deadline: February 23
Eligibility: Undergraduate students and recent college graduates interested in bioinformatics and personalized genomic medicine
The Iowa Institute of Human Genetics Summer Internship in Bioinformatics is an eight-week program where you explore personalized genomic medicine and computational biology. Throughout the summer, you focus entirely on bioinformatics topics instead of traditional wet-lab bench science. For your daily activities, you will conduct intensive computational research under faculty mentorship, attend career-focused enrichment seminars, and deliver two formal presentations on your findings. The internship features a strictly computer-based lab environment, offering you a stipend to work with actual clinical sequencing data.
12. Cancer Research Opportunities at Iowa (CROI) Undergraduate Program
Location: University of Iowa (Iowa City, Iowa)
Stipend: $6,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size varies
Dates: May 23 – July 30
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; enrolled in an Associate's or Bachelor's degree program in biological, biomedical, or related sciences; returning to undergraduate studies in the fall following the program; minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred
The Cancer Research Opportunities at Iowa (CROI) program is a 10-week summer experience that immerses you in full-time, hands-on discovery science. You will explore diverse topics across biomedical sciences, bioengineering, health outcomes, and public health research. Your main activities include conducting an individual lab project, taking a comprehensive cancer course, attending career development workshops, and creating a scientific poster. A unique feature of this program is its dual-mentorship model, where you receive guidance from both an experienced faculty member and a near-peer mentor in the laboratory.
13. Iowa State University Math REU
Location: Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Stipend: $5,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; typically 9–21 students per summer
Dates: June 14 – August 9
Application Deadline: February 16
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate's degree program in Fall; at least 18 years old by June 1; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
In this internship, you spend eight weeks working in a hands-on, team-based math program. You will explore many different topics, such as graph theory, numerical analysis, linear algebra, probability, mathematical biology, computational math, logic, and dynamical systems. During the program, you will do things like collaborate in small groups, meet with your mentors every day, attend weekly talks, and share your results at a final presentation. By the end, you will learn how to use math programming tools like Python or Sage, write math documents using LaTeX, and get papers ready to be published.
14. Summer Research in Microbiology at the Host-Pathogen Interface
Location: University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA)
Stipend: $7,000 + $1,300 for food and other living expenses
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 10 students per year
Dates: May 25 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Current undergraduates returning to their home institution for at least one semester before graduation; majoring in a biological science (having completed at least two years of college); U.S. citizens or permanent residents
In this program, you will spend 10 weeks investigating the complex interactions between infectious agents and the hosts they infect. You will explore core topics including bacteriology, virology, immunology, and molecular genetics. Throughout the summer, you will conduct an independent laboratory research project, attend weekly scientific seminars, participate in career development workshops, and present your findings at a closing poster symposium. You receive direct, one-on-one mentorship from leading faculty members within a highly collaborative research environment. By the end of the experience, you will have developed skills in advanced laboratory techniques, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
15. Kemin Industries Summer Internship Program
Location: Kemin Industries headquarters, Des Moines, Iowa
Stipend: Paid, amount not disclosed
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not disclosed
Dates: Typically June–August (10-12 weeks)
Application Deadline: Early November
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors at an accredited college or university; pursuing a relevant degree (Science, Engineering, Business, etc.)
In this internship, you will work on projects supporting nutrition, food security, and animal health, understanding how scientific innovation translates to real-world impact. It includes mentorship from research scientists and business professionals, exposure to laboratory research and business operations, and involvement in cross-functional projects. The company emphasizes continuous learning through its internal Kemin University platform and professional development programs. You will develop skills in areas ranging from analytical chemistry to regulatory affairs to market research. Many Kemin interns return as full-time employees, with the company viewing internships as talent recruitment. This STEM internship exposes you to biotechnology innovation addressing global food security and nutrition challenges.
Image source - Ames National Laboratory logo