The LPI Summer Internship Program 2026 in the USA is a fully funded international internship opportunity for undergraduate students from around the world who wish to gain hands-on research experience in planetary science. This program provides a 10-week research placement between June and August 2026, allowing students to work directly with leading planetary scientists at the Lunar and Planetary Institute. Participants engage in scientific research, attend lectures, participate in development workshops, and explore career paths in science and engineering.
The internship is highly competitive and merit-based, focusing on academic excellence, scientific interest, and alignment with ongoing research projects. Students interested in areas such as planetary geology, surface processes, impact cratering, remote sensing, spectroscopy, geochemistry, planetary atmospheres, astrobiology, machine learning, lunar science, meteorites, icy satellites, small bodies, and interplanetary dust will find a wide range of project options. Although preference is given to students majoring in physical or natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, or computer science, undergraduates from all academic fields who meet the criteria are welcome to apply.
The fully funded nature of the LPI Summer Internship Program makes it an attractive opportunity for international students seeking research exposure in the United States. Selected interns will receive up to 13,351 USD, covering their stipend, housing, travel, and living expenses for the duration of the internship. The program aims to prepare future researchers and explorers by offering a supportive and collaborative environment where students can develop new skills, enhance their scientific understanding, and build global professional networks.
Applicants must be undergraduate students with at least 50 semester credit hours completed. Selection is based on academic performance, research interests, relevant experience, career goals, and the quality of submitted documents. The program encourages applicants from all backgrounds, with no restrictions based on nationality, gender, race, age, or other factors.
To apply, candidates must complete the online application form, respond to all required essay questions, and upload the necessary documents, including official transcripts, proof of English language proficiency such as TOEFL, IELTS, or a university-issued English certificate, and two recommendation letters. Official transcripts must be sent directly by the applicant’s college registrar via email or by post. Once the application is submitted, candidates receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt.
The LPI Summer Internship Program 2026 offers international students the chance to work in an advanced research environment, enhance their scientific capabilities, and experience professional growth through mentorship and hands-on research in the United States. The application deadline for the program is 12 December 2025.
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