The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) Summer Internship Program offers a fully funded, 10-week opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in cutting-edge planetary science research. Hosted by LPI in collaboration with NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, this program provides students with valuable hands-on research experience under the mentorship of leading planetary scientists.
Established in 1977, the LPI Summer Internship has a long-standing reputation for fostering future leaders in planetary science. Interns gain experience in various research areas, including planetary geology, astrobiology, geochemistry, remote sensing, and planetary atmospheres. Many program alumni have made significant contributions to their fields.
Participants will also benefit from enriching activities such as lectures and career development workshops, enhancing their professional journey. The internship is open to undergraduates with a background in physical or natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics, though all eligible students are encouraged to apply.
The fully funded internship program offers an unparalleled opportunity to work closely with top scientists and explore exciting research areas in planetary science while growing professionally.
Quick Overview of LPI Summer Internship Program 2025
- Host Country: United States
- Host Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in collaboration with NASA’s Johnson Space Center
- Deadline: December 12, 2024
- Duration: June 2 – August 8, 2025
- Value: Up to $8,056 covering stipend, travel, housing, and living expenses
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students with 50 semester hours in relevant fields
Perks of Lunar and Planetary Institute Internships 2025
- Engage in hands-on planetary science research.
- Receive mentorship from leading planetary scientists.
- Participate in lectures and career development workshops.
- Develop research skills and professional networks.
- Gain experience in a world-class research environment.
Benefits of Summer Internships in Planetary Research
- Exposure to cutting-edge research in planetary science.
- Networking opportunities with professionals and fellow interns.
- Participate in career development workshops and lectures to enhance research and communication skills.
- Opportunity to collaborate with experts from NASA Johnson Space Center and LPI.
- Access to valuable career development resources.
- Potential stipend of up to $1,500 to attend the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference as a first author.
Eligibility Criteria of NASA LPI Internships 2025
- Undergraduates must have completed at least 50 semester hours of credit in physical or natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics.
- Selection is based on:
- Academic achievement and curriculum
- Career goals and scientific interests
- Match of applicant’s interests with available research projects
- Applicants must be proficient in English for reading, writing, and communication.
- Applicants should be pursuing majors in physical or natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics.
- Open to U.S. citizens and foreign nationals, excluding those from U.S. Designated Countries.
Important Dates of Planetary Science Internships
- Application Deadline: December 12, 2024
- Notification of Selection: March 2025
- Program Start: June 2, 2025
- Program End: August 8, 2025
How to Apply for the Undergraduate Internships at LPI in the US
- Visit the LPI Internship Application Form and complete the application form.
- Prepare the following documents:
- Submit a CV, Include your educational background and relevant experiences.
- Submit official transcripts from your current or previous university, mailed directly to LPI, or electronically sent by the university to the provided email.
- Submit at least two (maximum of three) letters of recommendation through the online system. Recommenders must submit these directly.
- Complete the essay-style questions in the online application, detailing your research interests and career goals.
Required Documents for LPI Summer Internship Program 2025
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Updated CV with relevant academic and work experience.
- Recommendation Letters: Minimum of two letters from professors or supervisors familiar with your qualifications.
- Official Transcripts: Sent directly from your institution (either electronically or hard copy).
- Proof of English Proficiency: TOEFL/IELTS scores or a letter from a professor if English is not your first language.
Focus Areas of the LPI Summer Internship
- Planetary Geology and Surface Processes
- Impact Cratering
- Planetary Remote Sensing and Spectroscopy
- Geochemistry, Petrology, and Mineralogy
- Planetary Atmospheres
- Astrobiology
- Lunar Science and Exploration
- Meteorites and Sample Analysis
- Interplanetary Dust and Presolar Grains
For more details on the scholarship and application process, visit the LPI’s official Website.
