WDTS Pathway Summer School - Undergrad

Overview

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is hosting two Pathway Summer Schools (PSS) for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science, sponsored by the Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists (WDTS). The WDTS Pathway Summer Schools create innovative pathways for students with the goal of attracting young students from all backgrounds toward building a STEM talent pool. DOE WDTS PSS at PNNL programs focus on building science identity, enhancing STEM efficacy, and stimulating interest in learning and careers of importance to DOE mission.

Our PNNL Office of STEM Education and Workforce Development (OSEWD) is seeking undergraduate students who are interested in STEM studies or careers to participate in a 6-week active learning experience this summer at the Richland campus. Students of all backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply.

The internship begins June 23, 2026 through July 29, 2026, and applicants must be available to start on June 23 and work 29 hours per week on-site in Richland, WA.

Led by OSEWD and guided by a summer school team of mentors, including experienced researchers trained in STEM education, students will participate in one of two distinct WDTS Pathway Summer School programs
. Each program has a focused research theme, and students will engage only in the activities aligned with their selected program
.

Across both programs, summer school students will:

• Prepare for future WDTS internships and STEM academic pathways
• Develop a professional portfolio

Program-specific focus areas include:

• WDTS PSS Critical Minerals and Materials Program:
  • Develop an understanding of PNNL’s critical minerals, materials science, and artificial intelligence research portfolios.

• WDTS PSS Energy and the Grid Program:
  • Develop an understanding of PNNL’s energy systems, power grid research, and artificial intelligence research portfolios.

To have a complete application package, the below must be uploaded correctly for consideration:

• Upload Resume or CV in “Resume” section only (note:
  If applying to multiple positions, the resume uploaded will be the resume used for all positions an applicant applies towards)
• If a resume is not uploaded, applications will be rejected and will no longer be considered. Electronic applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. (PST) on the posting close date.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Applicants must be 18 years of age by start date
• Applicants must be able to work 29 hours a week.
• Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher and must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all science, technology, engineering, and math courses.
• Applicants must be currently enrolled as either a freshman or sophomore undergraduate at the time of application with an anticipated graduation date of 2028 or later.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrates interest in STEM Studies
• Demonstrates interest in energy and power grid research
• Demonstrates interest in critical minerals and materials research
• Demonstrates an interest in the role of AI in scientific research
• Relevant coursework desired:
  Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering
• Demonstrates interest in DOE WDTS internships

N/A

This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC…