Online applications are invited for the LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science. Check the eligibility details and apply here!

About

The LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to perform cutting-edge research, learn from widely respected planetary scientists, and discover exciting careers in planetary science. During the 10-week internship, students have opportunities to participate in enrichment activities, including lectures and career development workshops

LPI Summer Intern Program
LPI Summer Intern Program

Program Overview

  • The Lunar and Planetary Institute invites undergraduates with at least 50 semester hours of credit to experience cutting-edge research in the lunar and planetary sciences.
  • Students with majors in physical or natural science, engineering, computer science, or mathematics are preferred, but all eligible students will be considered.
  • The 10-week program runs from June 3–August 9, 2024.
  • Summer interns will work one-on-one with a scientist from the LPI or the NASA Johnson Space Center on a research project.
  • Selections are made based on information provided in the submitted application, such as academic experience and scientific interests, as well as specific research project requirements.
  • Selected participants will be notified in March 2024. Interns participating in person will be located either at the Lunar and Planetary Institute or the NASA Johnson Space Center, both in Houston, Texas.

Eligibility

  • Undergraduates with at least 50 semester hours of credit are eligible.
  • Students with majors in physical or natural science, engineering, computer science, or mathematics are preferred, but all eligible students will be considered.
  • Applicants will be considered without regard to gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, religion, or other protected status.

Selection Criteria

  • Scholarship, curriculum, and experience
  • Career objectives and scientific interest
  • Match of applicant’s interest with available research projects

How to Apply?

  • You must apply using the online application form.
  • Paper applications will not be accepted.
  • Once you begin the application, you must complete all questions on the form, including the essay-style questions. Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your application number and a link to view the status of your reference letters.
  • You are required to submit at least two reference letters (maximum of 3) and official transcripts to qualify for the program.

Application Guidelines

  • Transcripts and letters of recommendation may be submitted independently, but they must be received by December 12, 2023, for your application to be considered.
  • Transcripts and letters of recommendation must be submitted in English.
  • Hard copy and electronic transcripts are accepted. Ask your college registrar to mail an official hard copy transcript to:
    • LPI Summer Intern Program
      Application #
      3600 Bay Area Boulevard,
      Houston, TX 77058-1113
  • All official electronic transcripts should be sent directly from the college or the college’s vendors to internprogram[at]lpi[at]usra[at]edu
  • If you are a foreign national, you must provide proof of English proficiency through one of these accepted methods:
    • Test Of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
    • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score
    • A letter from one of the professors in the English department at your college confirming that you have sufficient spoken and written English language skills to successfully participate in the internship program

Important Dates

December 12, 2023Application Deadline
March 2024Notification of Selections
June 3, 2024Program Begins
August 7, 2024LPI Summer Intern Conference
August 8, 2024Alumni Seminar
August 9, 2024Program Ends
August 10, 2024Departure/Move-Out
Timeline of LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science

Benefits

  • Gaining valuable research experience
  • Developing new skills and refining others
  • Meeting and working with professionals
  • Establishing contacts for letters of reference and networking
  • Experiencing a new work environment

FAQs

How many times can I participate in the LPI Summer Internship Program?

 If selected, the applicant may only participate in the LPI Summer Internship Program once.

Am I eligible to apply if I already hold a bachelor’s degree?

While we do consider applicants with bachelor’s degrees conferred in the fall or spring semester preceding the summer program, they are not the program’s main focus. Eligible applicants should be actively pursuing a bachelor’s degree and be enrolled in a college or university the semester before the start of the internship. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-related field but are actively pursuing another bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to this program, then you are eligible to apply.

Can I submit my application before receiving my recommendations?

Yes, your application can be submitted before receiving your recommendations.

Click here to view the official notification of the LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science

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