15 STEM Internships for Undergraduates in Indiana
If you are a student interested in STEM, internships can be a worthwhile way to explore the field. These experiences bridge your classroom learning with application, significantly boosting your professional profile and resume. Participating in a STEM internship allows you to gain practical skills that employers seek, making you a highly competitive candidate in the job market. You'll have the opportunity to explore potential career paths, test different specializations within STEM, and make informed decisions about your future academic and professional goals.
Why should I do a STEM internship in college?
As a participant in a STEM internship, you will gain experience in laboratories, engineering teams, or technology companies. You’ll apply theories learned in classrooms to solve problems, help develop new research techniques, and contribute to meaningful projects. Beyond technical skill development, these programs connect you with mentors and professionals who can offer valuable industry insights, guide your career trajectory, and serve as references for future opportunities. The professional networks you build during these experiences can lead to full-time job offers upon graduation.
Indiana hosts many STEM internships for undergraduates, from intensive laboratory research at prestigious universities such as Indiana University and the University of Notre Dame, to advanced engineering projects at leading corporations such as Eli Lilly, Cummins, and Boeing. To help you get started, we've put together 15 STEM internships for undergraduates in Indiana.
1. Roche Academy at the University of Indianapolis
Location: University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
Cost/Stipend: Paid internship; tuition support for academy participants
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective program; specific cohort size not disclosed
Dates: Multi-month program with internship component
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: STEM students at the university
Roche Academy at the University of Indianapolis trains biomedical equipment technicians through classroom instruction and paid internship experience. You'll complete technical coursework alongside supervised internship work, gaining essential practical skills. This STEM internship for undergraduates combines education with employment, providing you with an immediate pathway to careers upon completion. The program emphasizes practical skills in medical device maintenance and biomedical technology, making you job-ready. Successful completion includes a job offer. The combination of formal education and paid experience removes financial barriers while actively developing your specialized technical expertise.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Several cohorts year-round
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Undergraduate and gap year students
The Ladder University Internship Program is a virtual internship in which you work with startups and nonprofits across a variety of industries on defined, project-based assignments. Over eight weeks, you collaborate with a company manager and coach to scope, develop, and deliver two structured project milestones. Responsibilities include drafting deliverables, incorporating feedback, and presenting both interim and final results to the host organization. The program follows a clear weekly progression from project definition to final presentation. Apply now!
3. NASA Internship Programs
Location: Multiple NASA facilities; opportunities available in the Indiana region
Cost/Stipend: Majority of interns receive paid stipend; varies by academic level and session
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Over 2,000 students annually; highly competitive
Dates: Multiple sessions available (Spring, Summer, Fall)
Application Deadline: Summer: February 27; Fall: May 22
Eligibility: Students enrolled in college and at least 16 years old at the time of application
NASA's internship programs offer you paid positions where you contribute to the agency's mission of space exploration while gaining technical skills and career readiness competencies. You'll work alongside research scientists, engineers, and professionals in various disciplines, developing mentoring relationships with experienced NASA team members. Internships may be full-time or part-time at various NASA centers and facilities. The program values diverse backgrounds and welcomes students from non-STEM majors supporting business, administration, education, and management functions.
4. Indiana CTSI Undergraduate Summer Internships
Location: Multiple Indiana institutions (IU School of Medicine, Purdue University, University of Notre Dame)
Cost/Stipend: $4,000 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 11 students placed last year
Dates: 8 weeks over June and July
Application Deadline: Varies by institution; contact program coordinator for specific deadlines
Eligibility: Will have completed at least one full year (fall & spring terms) by June; Is enrolled full-time at Indiana University (any campus), Purdue University (West Lafayette or Indianapolis), or the University of Notre Dame; Is pursuing their first undergraduate degree with a major in any health or life sciences-related discipline
This program pairs you with faculty mentors conducting clinical and translational research, with an emphasis on "bench to bedside" projects (research moving from laboratory discovery toward patient applications). You will work on real research projects in clinical, translational, or basic science settings, gaining exposure to how research directly impacts medical practice. These STEM internships for undergraduates in Indiana represent partnerships among premier research institutions, offering you access to world-class mentors and facilities. The program provides professional development seminars alongside your research responsibilities, actively helping you develop crucial communication and presentation skills. You will gain firsthand experience observing how academic research translates to improved patient care and medical treatments.
5. Purdue Discovery Undergraduate Research Internships (DURI)
Location: Purdue University, Lafayette, IN
Cost/Stipend: $5,000 fellowship
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive program
Dates: Summer session, May 19 – August 8
Application Deadline: March 6
Eligibility: Purdue undergraduate students; faculty mentoring arrangements required
DURI connects you with Purdue faculty members conducting interdisciplinary research within Discovery Park, the university's research hub. You'll work on cutting-edge multidisciplinary projects alongside graduate students and professors in your chosen research area. The program provides you with opportunities to develop research proposals, conduct independent or collaborative studies, and present your findings. As a participant, you'll gain exposure to the entire research process from conception through presentation, building critical thinking and analytical skills.
6. Cancer Research Internship Summer Program (CRISP)
Location: IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: 10-week summer program
Application Deadline: Applications open towards the end of the year
Eligibility: Enrolled in an undergraduate program or are incoming freshmen
CRISP offers you a ten-week research experience designed to increase your interest in cancer research and clinical careers. You'll work directly with cancer center research programs and world-renowned investigators, gaining exposure to basic science, translational, and clinical cancer research. Participation in this STEM internship for undergraduates in Indiana opens doors to mentorship from postdoctoral fellows, clinical fellows, and faculty across diverse cancer research specialties. Your typical day will involve designing experiments, conducting supervised research in your mentor's laboratory, and attending weekly workshops addressing graduate and professional school applications. The program emphasizes networking and professional development, with social and educational events occurring regularly. You will conclude the summer by creating and presenting a scientific poster at the cancer center's summer programs poster session.
7. Indiana Biosciences Research Institute Summer Internship
Location: Indiana Biosciences Research Institute, Indianapolis, IN
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided; varies by position
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: Varies by position; typically 8 – 10 weeks
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students
The Indiana Biosciences Research Institute seeks motivated undergraduate students for summer positions in its research environment. You'll work alongside scientists and professionals on active projects, gaining hands-on experience in a biotech-like business setting with collaborations alongside leading biopharmaceutical companies. These STEM internships for undergraduates in Indiana provide immersion in translational research, which involves projects bridging basic science discoveries and pharmaceutical development. The IBRI environment emphasizes both scientific skill-building and professional development, preparing you for successful careers in life sciences. You'll contribute to real projects advancing translational science and improving patient health outcomes.
8. Pediatric Research Summer Internship Program
Location: Herman B Wells Center, IU School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN
Cost/Stipend: Stipend of $4,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 1 – July 24
Application Deadline: January 31
Eligibility: Undergraduate students at least 18 years old
The Herman B Wells Center's Pediatric Research Summer Internship Program offers you the opportunity to engage with the IU School of Medicine faculty while participating in laboratory research focused on children's health. You will design and execute research projects under faculty supervision, gaining genuine ownership of your scientific inquiry. This selective STEM internship for undergraduates in Indiana has inspired learners like you to pursue pediatric health research for over 25 years, establishing a proven track record of student success. You'll attend organized professional development events and connect with mentors committed to developing the next generation of pediatric researchers. The program concludes with an oral presentation where you share your research findings with faculty, peers, and program administrators.
9. Medical Neuroscience Undergraduate Summer Research Program
Location: Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, IU School of Medicine, Bloomington, IN
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive program; specific cohort size not disclosed
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: Typically opens in October
Eligibility: Undergraduate students
The Medical Neuroscience Summer Undergraduate Research Program provides you with an intensive eight-week research experience in neuroscience. You'll work in laboratories across the Stark Neurosciences Research Institute on projects addressing topics such as addiction, neurodegenerative diseases, neuroimmunology, ocular neurobiology, and psychiatric disorders. This STEM internship for undergraduates in Indiana connects you directly with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty conducting groundbreaking neurological research. You will receive mentorship from multiple levels of scientists, allowing you to learn valuable research techniques and gain exposure to different mentoring styles. The program culminates with you presenting a scientific poster based on your summer research at the Stark Summer Symposium, providing crucial communication experience.
10. Ivy Tech Research Scholars Program
Location: Multiple Indiana institutions (IU, Purdue, University of Notre Dame based on student location)
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 11 students in the 2025 cohort; rolling admissions process
Dates: June 2 – August 11
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Students enrolled at an Ivy Tech campus within 30 miles of Bloomington, Evansville, Indianapolis, West Lafayette, or South Bend, and who have completed at least one semester of classes at the time of application; At least 18 years old
The Ivy Tech Research Scholars Program offers you a ten-week research experience designed for community college students pursuing STEM careers in biomedical and health sciences. You will be matched with research teams at Indiana University, Purdue University, or the University of Notre Dame, depending on your geographic location, ensuring practical commuting arrangements. This program exemplifies how STEM internships for undergraduates in Indiana create pathways for community college students to access invaluable research opportunities at major research universities. You’ll gain hands-on research skills, participate in professional development training, and receive communication coaching to effectively present your findings. The program concludes with end-of-program symposia and virtual presentations, connecting you with students across campuses.
11. Purdue Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)
Location: Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
Cost/Stipend: Stipend provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive selection
Dates: Remote: May 25 – 31; In-person: June 1 – July 31
Application Deadline: Priority application deadline January 15; rolling after
Eligibility: Undergraduate students enrolled at Purdue University, other U.S. institutions, and international institutions
SURF provides you with an intensive research experience, allowing you to work with graduate students and professors in your respective school or discipline. You’ll select a research project aligned with your academic interests and career goals, receiving dedicated guidance and mentorship throughout the summer. This STEM internship for undergraduates in Indiana is designed for science and engineering students seeking immersive research experiences during concentrated summer periods. The program supports full-time research engagement, allowing you to develop deep expertise in your chosen topic. You will present your research findings at the program’s conclusion, building communication skills essential for both academic and professional careers. The structured mentorship ensures you receive regular feedback and guidance, maximizing your learning.
12. IUUR Summer Research Program
Location: Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN
Cost/Stipend: $3,000 stipend; on-campus housing provided; meal stipend included
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: June 1 – July 24
Application Deadline: March 4
Eligibility: Currently enrolled IUB students pursuing any degree; anticipated graduation date no earlier than December of the application year
The IUUR Summer Research Program welcomes you even if you have little to no previous research experience, making it an accessible entry point into academic research. You'll work in small collaborative groups of four to six students, with a graduate student, faculty member, or postdoctoral mentor guiding your research journey. Although the program has expanded, STEM internships for undergraduates in Indiana remain a significant component, allowing you to explore diverse research areas. Your research will take place in active research groups across the university, exposing you to various methodologies and disciplinary approaches. You will receive professional development support and maintain close mentorship throughout the eight-week experience. The combination of a paid stipend and provided housing removes financial barriers, allowing you to focus entirely on your valuable research.
13. STEM Summer Scholars Institute
Location: Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN
Cost/Stipend: $4,000 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive program
Dates: Last year was June 7 – August 1
Application Deadline: Last year was January 16
Eligibility: Undergraduate students from partner Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs)
This intensive eight-week residential research program will introduce you to graduate-level research at Indiana University Bloomington. You'll spend the majority of your time in laboratory settings, learning advanced research techniques, attending lab meetings, and solving real research problems. A dedicated faculty mentor will guide your research project throughout the summer, ensuring you gain valuable experience conducting original research. You'll live on campus and participate in group meals and professional development events, fostering a strong sense of community. The program concludes with a poster presentation where you showcase your research findings, honing your communication skills. As an accepted participant, you'll also receive a graduate school application fee waiver, providing tangible support for your future academic pursuits. This program is specifically designed for students from underrepresented groups considering advanced degrees in research fields.
14. Amazon – Software Development Engineer (SDE) Internship
Location: Multiple US locations, including Seattle, New York, Virginia, and others
Cost/Stipend: Paid internship; starting rate $52.72/hour; relocation assistance provided
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: 12 weeks, May – August (specific start dates vary; most begin May or June)
Application Deadline: Rolling applications; typically open through early-to-mid spring
Eligibility: Enrolled in a Bachelor's degree or above in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Information Systems, or related STEM fields; at least 18 years old
As an Amazon Software Development Engineer intern, you'll take full ownership of your code from initial design all the way through deployment and live production operations. You'll build scalable services within a large distributed computing environment, working alongside experienced engineers to craft solutions that affect millions of customers around the world. Day-to-day responsibilities include designing and developing using cloud-native architectures and microservices, participating in code reviews, contributing to technical documentation, and upholding a high standard of operational excellence. Throughout the summer, you'll be paired with both a manager and a dedicated mentor to support your professional growth.
15. ND Power & Propulsion Engineering Internship
Location: University of Notre Dame, IN
Cost/Stipend: Not specified in program details; internship position
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive selection; exact cohort size not disclosed
Dates: 10 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: September 15 – November 10
Eligibility: Must be enrolled as an undergraduate in an engineering degree program at a university or college by the start of the summer term
The ND Power & Propulsion Engineering Internship provides you with ten weeks of engineering experience, where you’ll work alongside industry partners and global experts on projects. You'll gain hands-on exposure across multiple engineering disciplines, including test engineering, mechanical design, systems control, thermal analysis, and computational fluid dynamics. Your internship includes professional development workshops, weekly lunch-and-learn sessions, and social events designed to help you build your professional network. You will present your work at the Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium and have the option to compete in the 3-Minute Thesis competition. Access to campus facilities, including the health center, library, and recreation center, supports your summer experience.
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