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

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.

The 10-week program runs from June 3, 2019–August 8, 2019. As a summer intern, applicant will work one-on-one with a scientist at the LPI or at the NASA Johnson Space Center on a research project of current interest in lunar and planetary science. Interns are selected by the project advisors who look for academic excellence and scientific interest and backgrounds compatible with their specific project needs.

Benefits of an internship:

• Gain valuable research experience
• Develop new skills and refine others
• Meet and work with professionals, establishing contacts for letters of reference and networking
• Experience a new work environment.

The LPI is located near the NASA Johnson Space Center, on the south side of Houston, Texas. On NASA’s behalf, the LPI provides leadership in the scientific community for research in lunar, planetary, and solar system sciences, and linkage with related terrestrial programs.

Eligibility 

• College undergraduates with at least 50 semester hours of credit interested in pursuing a career in the sciences are eligible.
• Students with majors in a physical or natural science, engineering, computer science, or mathematics have an advantage, but any eligible student may apply.

Selection Criteria 

Selection is based on these criteria:

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

Financial Support : Selected interns will receive a $7,300 stipend to cover the costs associated with being in Houston for the duration of the program. This amount covers the internship stipend, travel, housing, and cost of living expenses. Additionally, financial support up to $1,000 is offered to interns who submit an accepted abstract as first author to the upcoming Lunar and Planetary Science Conference.