15 STEM Internships for Undergraduates in Minnesota
As an undergraduate student, completing an internship can strengthen your resume by adding practical experience and demonstrating your readiness for the workplace. It also improves your employability by helping you build skills, gain industry exposure, and develop professional networks that may lead to future opportunities. It gives you experience in a field you are curious about, allowing you to test a career path before you graduate and commit to it full-time.
Why should I do a STEM internship in college?
Completing a STEM internship during college gives you practical skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, and problem-solving. It also provides exposure to professional environments, helping you understand workplace expectations and refine your career direction. Many internships include mentorship from professionals, allowing you to build confidence while developing a portfolio of projects or research. Additionally, internship experience can enhance applications for graduate programs or full-time roles by demonstrating both technical ability and initiative. Some programs also offer stipends or academic credit.
To help you navigate your options, we have curated a list of the 15 STEM internships for undergraduates in Minnesota. This selection is based on accessibility and a strong focus on STEM disciplines.
1. Mayo Clinic Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)
Location: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
Stipend: $6,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; approximately 180 students across campuses
Dates: May 26 – July 31
Application Deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Undergraduates enrolled in a U.S. accredited college with at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale; have completed their sophomore year before the program; U.S. citizens or international students attending U.S. colleges
In this program, you will work on a project designed for summer fellows, with opportunities to explore areas such as biochemistry, immunology, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and regenerative sciences. The program emphasizes real-world research, allowing you to contribute to ongoing studies and potentially earn recognition through presentations or coauthorship in scientific publications. You can collaborate with a network of researchers, including postdoctoral scholars and medical professionals, while gaining insight into career pathways and ethical research practices through seminars and professional development activities. You may also have access to advanced instrumentation and facilities, as well as opportunities to observe how research is applied in clinical settings.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies depending on the program type; financial aid available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25%; 70–100 students
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Varies depending on the cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: College and gap year students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks
The Ladder University Internship Program is a virtual internship where you’ll work with startups and nonprofits on real-world projects across various industries. You work closely with a manager and a Ladder Coach to complete tasks that address actual business needs, such as coding, product research, market analysis, or strategy development. The program requires a weekly commitment of 10-20 hours and includes practical experience, professional communication, and project management. You will also take part in training sessions and peer interactions to better understand startup environments, and conclude the program by presenting your work. A reference letter from a supervisor may be provided based on performance. Apply now!
3. Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Programs (LSSURP) at the University of Minnesota
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
Stipend: $4,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: ~13%; approximately 60 students annually
Dates: May 30 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 6
Eligibility: Undergraduates from accredited 2- or 4-year institutions interested in life sciences graduate degrees; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
In this 10-week program, you’ll conduct a research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor in areas such as cancer research, neuroscience, and related life science fields. The experience emphasizes research, allowing you to work in laboratory, clinical, or field settings while contributing to ongoing studies. You also participate in small peer seminars led by graduate coordinators, where you can present your progress and receive feedback. The program includes professional development sessions focused on research ethics, career pathways, and graduate study preparation, along with community activities such as orientation events and social gatherings. The experience concludes with a research poster presented at a university-wide symposium.
4. ATP-Bio Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at the University of Minnesota
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Stipend: $6,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 10–15 students
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Undergraduates in STEM (first-year to junior), including community college students
In this internship, you’ll work on advanced projects in biopreservation, focusing on technologies that extend the storage and transport of biological systems such as cells, tissues, and organs. You may participate in team-based research alongside mentors from multiple institutions, including universities and medical centers, contributing to real-world projects in biology and engineering. The program emphasizes practical learning, allowing you to develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and computational approaches while working on problems such as cryopreservation and organ viability. The program also provides exposure to collaborative scientific environments and may include site-based experiences across partner institutions.
5. Lando/NSF REU in Chemistry at the University of Minnesota
Location: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN
Stipend: $9,747 + ~$2,200 for housing
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; approximately 10–15 students
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Sophomore or junior undergraduates majoring in chemistry or related fields; enrolled at a college/university outside the UMN Twin Cities; U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, and International Students already studying at a US institution (F-1 or J-1 visa)
In this program, you’ll conduct a research project in chemistry or related fields under the guidance of a faculty mentor at the University of Minnesota. You can gain laboratory experience in areas such as organic synthesis or physical chemistry, with opportunities to engage in independent experimentation and develop technical research skills. The program is designed to introduce undergraduate students to chemical research while supporting their preparation for graduate studies. In addition to lab work, you may participate in professional and social events that encourage networking and provide insight into research careers, while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment among students from diverse backgrounds.
6. Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) REU at the University of Minnesota
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Stipend: $6,000 + up to $500 travel stipend + $1,000 research supply fund
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; up to 25 students
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Undergraduates in science and engineering majors; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The MRSEC Research Experiences for Undergraduates Program is a full-time, 10-week research program in materials science and engineering where you will work closely with a faculty mentor on a defined project. Research areas may include chemical, mechanical, or related engineering fields, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experimentation and problem solving. The program supports your development in key research skills such as data analysis, technical writing, and scientific communication, while providing access to resources like a research supply fund and potential travel grants for conferences. Designed to broaden participation in STEM, it fosters an inclusive and collaborative environment and encourages applications from students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.
7. Research Experiences for Undergraduates in Human-Centered Computing for Social Good at the University of Minnesota
Location: University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN
Stipend: $7,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; approximately 8–10 students per summer
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: Rolling basis until full
Eligibility: Currently enrolled undergraduate students enrolled in computer science or related fields with basic programming knowledge; U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or permanent residents; must not have earned a B.S. or B.A. degree prior to the program start; basic programming knowledge (demonstrated via coursework) is required
In this 10-week program, you’ll work on a research project addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals under the guidance of faculty mentors. Projects are based in areas such as virtual reality, visualization, human-computer interaction, and human-robot interaction, with a focus on applying technology to social challenges. You are immersed in a collaborative research environment within the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, where you learn interaction design and data visualization. The program also includes weekly seminars, invited talks, and professional development workshops to support research training and career development, while fostering a supportive and inclusive community that encourages participation from underrepresented students.
8. Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) at The Hormel Institute
Location: The Hormel Institute, Austin, MN
Stipend: $16/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; approximately 15–20 interns
Dates: May 27 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates registered at a 4-year college/university pursuing a science-related degree
The Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Internship at The Hormel Institute is a 10-week, full-time program where you will work 40 hours per week alongside scientists on biomedical research projects. You will gain experience in areas such as cancer research and virology, while learning to use advanced laboratory equipment and techniques not typically available in undergraduate settings. The program also includes weekly professional development activities, training sessions, and opportunities to present your research at a public symposium. Low-cost housing is available to support your participation, and the experience provides valuable insight into scientific careers while helping you build connections with researchers and peers in the field.
9. Lillehei Heart Institute LHI-AHA Summer Research Scholars Program
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Stipend: Hourly wage, rate not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; typically 10–15 undergraduate students
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Undergraduates in healthcare-related degrees
In this program, you are placed in a laboratory setting to gain experience in cardiovascular science, developing skills in experimental techniques and data analysis while contributing to ongoing studies. The program also includes weekly seminars led by faculty and industry professionals, along with field trips and activities that provide insight into clinical, academic, and industry pathways in medicine. You also have opportunities to present your work and network with researchers, including participation in events such as Cardiopalooza. Housing options may be available at an additional cost, and the program is designed to encourage students to pursue careers in cardiovascular research and medicine.
10. Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation Clinical Research Internship Program
Location: Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, MN
Stipend: $680/week; need-based scholarships are available for travel and living expenses
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 7–9 interns
Dates: May 27 – August 14
Application Deadline: January 4
Eligibility: Undergraduates or recent graduates not accepted to medical school; GPA 3.6/4.0; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
You’ll work on research projects involving cardiovascular health, including analyzing clinical data and contributing to ongoing studies, while gaining exposure to patient care through shadowing hospital rounds, observing procedures, and attending case conferences. The program also includes experiences such as medical device tours and visits to cardiovascular registries, along with opportunities to learn from healthcare professionals through seminars and discussions. At the end of the program, you will present your research at a poster session, and some projects may lead to authorship in scientific publications or presentations at national conferences.
11. SciTech Internship Program
Location: Various companies in Minnesota
Stipend: Paid by employer (50% wage match up to $2,500)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; ~200–250 Interns
Dates: Year-round, with a focus on summer
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Undergraduates in STEM majors in approved participating colleges, at least 18 years old, with a 2.5+ GPA, at least halfway through their degree
The SciTech Internship Program connects you with paid STEM internships at small to mid-sized companies across Minnesota through a curated matching platform. You will gain access to an exclusive job board and an employer network of over 200 companies actively hiring, with all positions pre-approved to ensure they are STEM-focused and relevant to your field. Through these internships, you will gain industry experience in areas such as technology and engineering, while building practical skills and strengthening your resume. The program also supports professional networking and provides opportunities to earn wages while gaining experience, helping you transition from academic study to the STEM workforce.
12. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Internships
Location: Various locations across Minnesota
Stipend: $19/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; over 200 summer positions
Dates: Typically mid-May or early June through late August or Labor Day (approx. 10–12 weeks)
Application Deadline: Early February
Eligibility: College students receiving academic credit; background check required; must be majoring in a related field (e.g., Biology, Natural Resources, Ecology)
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Internships offer hands-on experience in natural resource management, where you’ll work 20-40 hours per week on projects across areas such as ecology, fisheries, forestry, and wetland monitoring. You will gain practical field and laboratory experience by collecting and analyzing environmental data, supporting conservation efforts, and collaborating with professionals on sustainability initiatives. Opportunities are available across the state in diverse settings, from wildlife research to water resource management, providing broad exposure to public sector work. The program emphasizes applied learning in environmental science while helping you build technical and analytical skills relevant to STEM careers.
13. Hennepin County Internships
Location: Hennepin County, MN
Stipend: $22.50/hour
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; around 5–12 students
Dates: Year-round (summer, spring, and fall)
Application Deadline: Varies as per cohort; Summer: Late March; Spring: Mid-November; Fall: Early July
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled in or recently graduated within six months from a high school, GED, college, or technical program; international students are eligible with CPT or OPT (excluding 24-month STEM OPT)
The Hennepin County Internship Program offers paid, year-round opportunities across more than 50 departments, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in areas such as public health, engineering, and other STEM-related fields within Minnesota’s largest county. You can develop practical skills through real work assignments while exploring different career paths in public sector operations. The program also includes professional development resources such as resume-building workshops, diversity and inclusion training, and one-on-one career support through the Employee Career Center. In addition, you may benefit from mentoring, networking opportunities, and informational interviews with professionals, helping you build connections while earning a competitive wage.
14. Physics and Astronomy Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) at the University of Minnesota
Location: University of Minnesota Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN)
Stipend: $7,000 + up to $700 travel reimbursement
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; typically 10–15 students
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: January 31
Eligibility: Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, U.S. Nationals, or permanent residents
This program matches you with a project aligned with your interests to collaborate with faculty and research staff and gain experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis within a full-time research setting. The program also includes weekly seminars where faculty present ongoing work, offering insight into current research and career pathways in physics. Through collaboration with mentors and peers, you can develop technical and professional skills, with opportunities to present your findings and build a strong foundation for graduate study or careers in STEM.
15. Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)
Location: University of Minnesota (multi-site, MN included)
Stipend: $6,000–$7,000; varies by site
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; 10–12 students per summer
Dates: June 1 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduates in STEM; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
The Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology Research Experience for Undergraduates is a 10-week program where you can conduct research in sustainable nanotechnology, focusing on applications in energy, environmental sustainability, and nanomaterials. You’ll work with faculty on individual or collaborative lab projects, gaining experience in synthesis, characterization, and analysis at the molecular level. Research topics may include areas such as solar energy conversion, battery materials, and water purification, with an emphasis on how nanomaterials interact with natural environments. The program also includes seminars, site visits, and professional development activities that provide a broader context for your research, and concludes with a symposium where you’ll present your findings.
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