15 STEM Internships for Undergraduates in Maryland
How do you move from learning STEM concepts in lectures to actually using them to solve real problems? For many undergraduates, internships provide that transition. They allow you to apply the theories and technical skills you learn in class within professional environments such as research laboratories, engineering teams, healthcare institutions, or technology companies. Along the way, you gain practical experience, build relationships with mentors and researchers, and develop projects that strengthen your resume.
Why should I do a STEM internship in college?
A STEM internship gives you the chance to develop skills that go beyond what you typically gain in a classroom. You may assist with experiments, contribute to engineering or software projects, analyze scientific data, or support ongoing research initiatives. These experiences help you understand how professionals approach problem-solving, collaborate within teams, and communicate technical ideas clearly. Internships also strengthen your resume by demonstrating that you can apply academic knowledge in real-world settings. Many programs offer opportunities to present your work through reports, posters, or presentations, providing tangible outcomes to discuss in future interviews.
To simplify the process, we’ve curated a list of the most impactful STEM internships for undergraduates in Maryland, focusing on programs centered on real project work, mentorship, and professional exposure.
If you want to see what STEM internships are available in other states, find a list of STEM internships in California here & Arizona here.
1. NIST Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)
Location: NIST labs, Gaithersburg, MD
Stipend: $710 per week ($7,810 for the 11-week program)
Dates: 11-week program: May 27 – August 7 | 9-week option: June 8 – August 7 | Offset 11 week option: June 8 – August 21
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 150 students
Application Deadline: January 26
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate student in an accredited two-year or four-year college in the U.S.; must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident; First-year undergraduates and graduating seniors (seniors participating in the Winter or Spring Commencement) encouraged
At the NIST Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), you work directly with federal scientists and engineers on research problems that contribute to national measurement science and technology. Projects span areas such as materials characterization, advanced manufacturing, computing systems, and applied physics. You will spend most of your time embedded within a research group, learning how government laboratories approach experimental design, instrumentation, and technical analysis. You gain exposure to sophisticated research tools and laboratory techniques rarely available in typical undergraduate settings. Weekly seminars introduce broader scientific topics while professional development sessions explore career paths in federal research and public service. Over the course of the program, you prepare a formal abstract summarizing your work and receive feedback from mentors and peers. The experience concludes with a research presentation where interns communicate their findings to the NIST community.
2. Ladder University Internship Program
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Acceptance rate/ Cohort size: Selective
Application deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
The Ladder University Internship Program places you inside an early-stage startup environment where your work contributes directly to active business or technical projects. Depending on your placement, you may support tasks related to product development, data analysis, operations strategy, market research, or content development. Interns collaborate with small teams and take responsibility for defined deliverables within the organization. You get a designated Ladder Coach, who helps you refine communication, organization, and decision-making skills while guiding you through real project challenges. Interns also learn how startup teams manage deadlines, iterate quickly, and translate ideas into actionable outputs. Toward the end of the internship, many participants present their work to company leaders, explaining their approach and outcomes.
3. Warren Alpert Summer Scholars Genetic Counseling Program
Location: At one of the five participating AIDGC Masters in Genetic Counseling Programs, i.e., University of Maryland School of Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania, Sarah Lawrence College, Rutgers University, and Boston University, Baltimore, MD
Stipend: $17/hour stipend ($4,080 for 6 weeks)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: m
Dates: June 8 – July 17
Application Deadline: January 30
Eligibility: Rising juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0+ who have completed coursework in biology, chemistry, or genetics
The Warren Alpert Summer Scholars Genetic Counseling Program introduces undergraduates to the interdisciplinary field of clinical genetics and patient-centered counseling. Participants engage with genetics professionals through seminars, case discussions, and collaborative sessions with graduate students currently training in the field. Early in the program, you explore foundational topics in medical genetics while observing how laboratory findings connect to real clinical decisions. As your experience progresses, shadowing opportunities allow you to observe genetic counselors interacting with patients and healthcare teams. Exposure to multiple clinical specialties helps illustrate how genetic information informs diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment planning. You also work on a small research or analysis project related to genetics or counseling practices. The internship concludes with a presentation in which students share insights from their projects.
4. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Summer Internship Program (SIP)
Location: NIH campus, Bethesda
Stipend: Varies, based oneducational level; for undergraduates, the stipend starts from $3010
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: Typically start in June, minimum 8-week commitment
Application Deadline: February 18
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are 18 years or older by September 30 and enrolled at least half-time in an accredited educational institution
The NIH Summer Internship Program places undergraduates in active research groups within the NIH Intramural Research Program. You join a laboratory led by a principal investigator and contribute to projects that may involve experimental research, data analysis, or computational investigation. Because the NIH encompasses many institutes and disciplines, projects can range from biomedical engineering and epidemiology to neuroscience and bioinformatics. Throughout the summer, you attend career talks, scientific seminars, and training sessions focused on research skills and professional development. Midway through the program, you prepare a written abstract describing their project and preliminary findings. The experience culminates in NIH’s Summer Poster Day, where you present your work to scientists from across the institute.
5. Nathan Schnaper Intern Program in Translational Cancer Research (NSIP)
Location: University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
Stipend: Subsistence allowance of $6,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: ~10 interns per year
Dates: May 18 – July 25
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Undergraduate students with a genuine interest in cancer research, a cumulative GPA of >3.2, and strong letters of recommendation as reflected in their application packages
The Nathan Schnaper Intern Program in Translational Cancer Research immerses undergraduates in research exploring how laboratory discoveries can be applied to cancer treatment and patient care. Participants are paired with faculty mentors from the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center and work on projects spanning molecular biology, targeted therapies, and cancer signaling pathways. First interns complete training sessions designed to strengthen laboratory skills and familiarize them with common research techniques. The internship focuses on the “bench-to-bedside” model, highlighting how experimental findings move through the translational research pipeline. You also attend seminars and small-group discussions focused on clinical trials and emerging cancer therapies. Opportunities to observe clinical oncology environments help illustrate the connection between research and patient outcomes. Social activities and mentoring events allow interns to interact with faculty and graduate researchers outside the laboratory setting. At the conclusion of the program, you deliver both oral and poster presentations summarizing the progress and significance of your research.
6. Johns Hopkins University – Research on Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems (ROSETAS)
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore
Stipend: $7,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: May 26–July 31
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; completed freshman year; must not graduate before program start
The ROSETAS program at Johns Hopkins University focuses on research addressing the technical and societal challenges of modern energy systems. You’ll join interdisciplinary research teams investigating topics such as renewable energy technologies, carbon capture strategies, and energy storage solutions. Each participant works with a faculty mentor and a graduate researcher who provide day-to-day guidance throughout the project. Further, the program includes workshops that help you develop analytical and communication skills. Educational tours and off-site visits introduce you to organizations involved in energy innovation and policy development. The summer concludes with a research symposium where you present your findings to the broader energy research community.
7. UMBC – EXPeriments in Earth and Atmospheric Science: Learning Opportunities and Research Experience (EXPLORE)
Location: University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
Stipend: $7,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Dates: June 1–August 7
Application Deadline: February 18
Eligibility: U.S. citizen/national/permanent resident; Completed at least 2 years of undergrad by summer; Enrolled the following fall; Must not have completed their bachelor’s degree
EXPLORE introduces students to research focused on Earth systems, atmospheric processes, and environmental data analysis. You get to collaborate with faculty researchers and graduate mentors on projects examining topics such as satellite observations, climate modeling, and environmental sensor data. Depending on the project, you may analyze large datasets, conduct laboratory experiments, or interpret field measurements from monitoring equipment. Lectures and seminars led by Earth science experts provide additional insight into current research questions shaping the field, while professional development workshops help you refine presentation skills and explore career pathways. You also take part in cohort activities and field excursions that allow you to connect classroom theory with real environmental systems. You conclude the summer by sharing your research findings with mentors and peers through a formal presentation.
8. UMD – Research Experience For Undergraduates (REU) in Combinatorics, Algorithms, and AI for Real Problems (CAAR)
Location: University of Maryland, College Park
Stipend: $7000
Acceptance rate/cohort size:Dates: June 1 – August 14
Application Deadline: March 3
Eligibility: College freshmen through seniors at U.S. colleges; Stipend constraints may apply for non-citizens
In this program, students work on research problems involving algorithms, machine learning, data structures, and advanced computational methods. Projects often investigate topics such as parallel computing, machine learning for autonomous systems, or algorithmic approaches to biological data. The program encourages you to translate mathematical theory into practical computing solutions through collaborative research projects. You read research literature, test computational ideas, and refine your approach with faculty mentors. Regular discussions with peers and mentors help participants develop strategies for tackling complex technical problems. You also gain experience communicating research ideas clearly, both in writing and through presentations. The program culminates in a presentation where interns explain the significance and potential applications of their research findings.
9. University of Maryland: Training and Research Experiences in Nonlinear Dynamics (TREND REU)
Location: University of Maryland, College Park, MD
Stipend: $7,000 + $750 for travel to UMD and back home + included housing at UMD for the program duration + $750 to present at conferences after TREND
Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: Mid-February
Eligibility: Students enrolled in an undergraduate institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of 4.0 who are U.S. citizens/permanent residents
TREND REU at the University of Maryland brings together undergraduate researchers interested in complex physical systems and nonlinear dynamics. You work closely with faculty mentors on projects spanning turbulence, neural networks, photonics, and emergent behaviors in physical systems. Research activities may involve running simulations, building experimental setups, or analyzing datasets generated from laboratory experiments. The program places strong emphasis on developing clear scientific communication skills alongside technical research abilities. You engage in workshops and discussions that explore broader issues such as outreach, collaboration, and equity in science. Throughout the summer, you’ll meet regularly with mentors and peers to share progress and troubleshoot challenges.
10. Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program (NREIP)
Location: Department of Navy labs; Maryland-area labs vary by year
Stipend: $7,500 (new undergrad participants) or $9,000 (returning undergrad participants)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 800+ placements across 62 laboratories (nationwide)
Dates: 10 weeks in summer (possible extension up to 4 additional weeks)
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: Enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university; U.S. citizens; Rising sophomores or equivalent on track to complete freshman year by the start of the internship; Graduating in the spring semester before the internship or later (exceptions apply)
The Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program places undergraduate researchers inside Department of Navy laboratories where scientists and engineers develop advanced technologies. As an intern, you work on projects that may involve robotics, materials science, cybersecurity, aerospace engineering, or other areas relevant to defense research. Work typically includes analyzing experimental results, developing technical models, or assisting with prototype testing under the guidance of experienced mentors. Direct mentorship from Navy researchers allows you to see how government laboratories approach complex engineering and scientific challenges. You also learn how research projects move from conceptual design to practical implementation. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams exposes interns to a wide range of technical specialties.
11. Maryland Technology Internship Program
Location: Sites across Maryland
Stipend: Paid internship, salaries set by host organizations
Dates: Varies by host
Application Deadline: Rolling deadlines
Eligibility: Current college student with a cumulative GPA of 2.5+ who is attending a Maryland higher education institution
The Maryland Technology Internship Program connects college students with technology-focused employers across the state. Through this initiative, companies in fields such as cybersecurity, biotechnology, software development, and advanced manufacturing hire students for hands-on technical roles. Interns contribute to projects that may involve coding, data analysis, laboratory support, engineering design, or product testing, depending on the employer. As placements vary widely, you gain exposure to the working culture of startups, research labs, or technology-driven nonprofits. The program also encourages employers to provide mentorship and meaningful project responsibilities.
12. NIH Clinical Center – Clinical Center Summer Internship Program
Location: NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 40 students
Dates: June 15 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 18
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled in college, graduate school, or a health professional school; Will be 18 by September 30
The Clinical Center Summer Internship Program at the National Institutes of Health introduces students to the intersection of biomedical research and clinical practice. You get to work alongside researchers and healthcare professionals in departments ranging from imaging sciences to rehabilitation medicine.These projects may involve assisting with clinical studies, analyzing health data, or supporting translational research initiatives that connect laboratory discoveries to patient care. The clinical setting exposes participants to the collaborative nature of healthcare research, where scientists, clinicians, and technical staff work together. You also attend lectures and training sessions led by NIH investigators discussing current developments in biomedical science. Students also have the opportunity to present their work during NIH Summer Poster Day, sharing insights with researchers across the institute.
13. Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) in Marine and Estuarine Science
Location: University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), Princess Anne, MD; field work linked to Assateague Island, MD (Sarbanes Coastal Ecology Center)
Stipend: $7,000 stipend + housing + meals
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 1 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Preference for rising sophomores/juniors; Open to all college students
The Marine and Estuarine Science REU program introduces undergraduates to research focused on coastal ecosystems and environmental processes. Participants work with faculty mentors on independent research projects examining topics such as marine biodiversity, coastal water quality, or estuarine ecosystem dynamics. Laboratory investigations are complemented by fieldwork that exposes you to real environmental monitoring techniques. Field excursions to regional research centers and coastal habitats help students understand how scientists study marine environments in practice. The program also includes workshops covering research ethics, scientific writing, and experimental design. Throughout the summer, you’ll interact with faculty, graduate researchers, and peers while building practical research skills. The experience concludes with a research symposium where you present the results of your projects to mentors and fellow participants.
14. Texas A&M Online Research Experience for Undergraduates (O-REU)
Location: Remote
Stipend: $5,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: May 27 - July 31(40 hours/week)
Application Deadline: Email application materials directly to icantu@tamu.edu
Eligibility: U.S. citizens and permanent residents pursuing bachelor's degrees
Texas A&M’s Online Research Experience for Undergraduates (O-REU) is a remote summer research program that connects students with faculty-led projects in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory. The program centers on materials science, engineering, computation, and data-intensive research. You’ll work closely with a mentor on a full-time project that may involve simulation, computational modeling, machine learning, or data analysis. Technical training through Texas A&M’s research computing and data science resources helps you strengthen skills in programming, high-performance computing, and research workflows. Alongside project work, you’ll attend weekly virtual meetings, seminars, and professional development sessions. You’ll also complete milestones, including a project proposal, progress update, and final presentation. Although the internship is primarily online, the program includes support for an in-person site visit during which participants can present their research as posters. Graduate school preparation and fellowship guidance are also built into the experience.
15. Yale Computer Science Remote Research Internship
Location: Remote
Stipend: Participants are paid a stipend commensurate with that of doctoral students
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive
Dates: Varies
Application Deadline: December 15 for summer placements (rolling application review)
Eligibility: Undergraduate students in computer science or related fields | international students may apply for virtual positions
The Yale Computer Science Remote Research Internship gives undergraduates the chance to join faculty-supervised research groups across several areas of computer science. Your placement is based on research fit, with possible fields including AI, machine learning, robotics, natural language processing, systems, cybersecurity, and theory. Rather than completing a classroom-style assignment, you contribute to active research already underway within a Yale lab. Depending on the project, your work may involve building software, testing algorithms, reviewing technical literature, or supporting theoretical analysis. Many interns also collaborate with graduate students, giving them a clearer view of how academic CS research teams operate. Virtual lab meetings, seminars, and check-ins help structure the remote experience. In some cases, strong student contributions may lead to acknowledgment or co-authorship on research publications.
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