The 2027 Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) Summer Intern Program offers an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on research experience in the United States while working alongside experienced planetary scientists.

Hosted by the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston, Texas, this 10-week program allows undergraduate students to participate in scientific research, develop technical skills, receive mentorship, and explore potential careers in planetary science. The program welcomes eligible U.S. citizens and international applicants, subject to nationality-related restrictions.

Applications for the 2027 program are now open. Interested students should review the eligibility requirements and prepare their application materials before the deadline.

About the LPI Summer Intern Program

The LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to explore the science of the Moon, planets, asteroids, and other bodies in our solar system. Participants work on research projects under the guidance of experienced scientists at the Lunar and Planetary Institute or NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Throughout the 10-week program, interns gain practical research experience and participate in educational activities, scientific lectures, presentations, and career development workshops. The program is designed to help students strengthen their research capabilities, build professional connections, and better understand career opportunities in planetary science.

Benefits of the Program

Selected interns can benefit from:

• Hands-on experience in planetary science research.
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced scientists.
• Opportunities to develop scientific and technical skills.
• Exposure to laboratory and research environments.
• Educational lectures and professional development workshops.
• Opportunities to network with scientists and fellow interns.
• Experience presenting research findings at program events.
• Financial support toward eligible program-related expenses, according to the official funding arrangements.

The program is conducted in person in Houston, Texas. Applicants should review the official financial support information to understand the arrangements for travel, accommodation, and living expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the 2027 LPI Summer Intern Program, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

1. Be an undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
2. Have completed at least 50 semester hours of university credit.
3. Be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program during the semester preceding the summer program.
4. Demonstrate academic preparation and research interests relevant to the available projects.
5. Submit all required application materials in English.
6. Meet the program’s nationality and security-related eligibility requirements.

Students majoring in physical sciences, natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics are particularly encouraged to apply. However, students from other academic backgrounds may also be considered if they meet the eligibility requirements.

Important: Citizens of certain countries on the U.S. Department of State’s designated list are not eligible. International applicants should consult the official eligibility page before applying.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents and materials:

• Completed online application form.
• Official academic transcript.
• Resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
• At least two and no more than three letters of recommendation.
• Responses to the required essay-style questions.
• Proof of English proficiency, where required for eligible international applicants.

Applicants whose primary language is not English may demonstrate proficiency through a TOEFL score, an IELTS score, or a letter from a professor in their college’s English department confirming sufficient English-language skills, as permitted by the program.

Recommendation letters must be submitted independently through the online application system. Official transcripts must be provided through an accepted institutional process. All required materials must arrive before the deadline.