Training Scientists Since 1977

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.

The benefits of this internship include:

  • 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

Many of today’s leaders in planetary science began as LPI summer interns. Every career starts somewhere, and we encourage you to join us as you embark on your journey.

About Us: The LPI is located near the NASA Johnson Space Center, on the southeast side of Houston, Texas. The LPI provides leadership in the scientific community for research in lunar, planetary, and solar system sciences, and linkage with related terrestrial programs. The internships are funded through NASA’s Support for Planetary Sample Science.

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 a 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 on the basis of 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.

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