Undergraduate Research Assistant Internship - Science and Technology

Undergraduate Internship Opportunity

Does an internship focused on changing the world's energy future intrigue you? If so, we might have just the opportunity you're looking for!

By completing this single application, you will be considered for Undergraduate Internships for Science & Technology projects. Answer the application questions to help us match your knowledge and experience with project qualifications. Applicants may be considered for multiple projects, and mentors will contact those who meet the qualifications. Internships offer flexible start and end dates to accommodate university schedules. Early applications are encouraged to increase your opportunities.

Idaho National Laboratory is seeking undergraduate students pursuing STEM degrees to join our Science & Technology Internship Talent Pipeline. This immersive program offers hands-on, mission-driven research experiences that directly support INL's work in nuclear energy, national security, and critical infrastructure.

Students will collaborate with world-class scientists, engineers, and technical professionals on projects that span advanced reactors, cybersecurity, materials science, environmental science, and more. Undergraduate interns are expected to apply foundational knowledge from their academic programs and develop new technical skills.

To explore examples of past student research, visit the INL Internship Poster Session Archive.

To learn more about INL's mission areas, visit our INL Fact Sheets, which provide overviews of INL's work in advanced reactors, cybersecurity, grid resilience, clean energy integration, and more.

Based on representations within your resume about education and experience, our team will refer your application to potential project positions relevant to your listed qualifications. By merely referring your application for any position, BEA does not affirm your qualifications or any likelihood of success in being selected for a position. Once referred, your application will be treated consistent with our normal hiring process.

Common majors include:
Engineering Disciplines, Computer & Data Sciences, Physical & Life Sciences, Social & Applied Sciences. Other related STEM majors will be considered based on project needs.

Responsibilities include:

supporting research and development projects under the guidance of INL scientists and engineers, conducting data collection, analysis, and experimental work, participating in technical discussions and contributing to project documentation, engaging in enrichment activities including workshops and networking, and other duties as assigned.

During the initial week of their assignment, interns will connect with their mentors to define the scope of work and gather the necessary resources for a successful internship. In the subsequent weeks, mentors will offer continued program assistance and guidance. Interns are strongly encouraged to engage in weekly seminars, facility tours, and community events to support their ongoing professional development. Completion of a final project is required and can be completed using various formats such as a traditional poster, electronic presentation, or video.

Minimum requirements include: being enrolled full-time as an undergraduate student at an accredited college or university, having a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, having authorization to work in the U.S. (including CPT and OPT), and being available for a 10–16 week, up to 40 hours per week, on-site internship.

Application requirements include: a current resume or CV, unofficial transcripts (include current and completed degree programs), and current class schedule and number of credits.

Compensation and benefits include: an hourly rate of $26.16 – $31.47, paid holiday time off, and travel reimbursement may be available for eligible interns.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

While INL accepts candidates authorized to work in the U.S. (including CPT and OPT), some internship projects may require the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "L" or "Q" clearance, which requires U.S.…