internships for physics students

NASA Internships

NASA offers paid internships to undergraduate students in physics. These internships may be a great opportunity for you if you want to gain experience working at one of the largest and most prestigious agencies in the world. The application process is fairly simple, but it’s still important that you understand the requirements before applying.

While there are no specific minimum or maximum grade point averages (GPAs) required for participation, applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance throughout their entire academic career. Additionally, successful candidates will have taken courses in calculus and differential equations as well as completed research projects under faculty supervision that demonstrate an interest in space science research. If you meet these minimum requirements, then it would be beneficial to consider applying!

WIPAC Fellowship

The Wisconsin Institute for Physics and Astronomy (WIPAC) invites undergraduate students in physics, astronomy and mathematics to apply for its Research Experience for Undergraduates program. Students will be immersed in science at the cutting edge of research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

In 2015, there are three programs:

• Astrochemistry – June 6-August 2
• Dark Matter/Neutrinos – June 6-August 2
• Stellar Astrophysics – June 6-July 30

All three programs are full-time positions with a stipend of approximately $5,000 per month (housing included). They require a minimum of 15 hours per week during regular business hours; more hours may be required depending on your project requirements.

Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (MIE) Undergraduate Student Research Assistantships

The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (MIE) Undergraduate Student Research Assistantships are awarded to students in good academic standing who are Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents at the University of Toronto. These awards allow you to gain valuable experience in engineering research while pursuing your undergraduate degree.

The application deadline is April 30.

Drexel University Research Experiences for Undergraduates

• Mentoring relationship with faculty
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities
• Training in research techniques
• Opportunity to present findings at a conference and/or poster session, if desired. Funding for local travel is available for this purpose.
• Stipend for living expenses and transportation costs (if needed). Housing and meals are provided on Drexel’s campus throughout the program period. Optional academic credit can be obtained by completing an independent study project with a faculty member of your choice..

Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at the University of Wisconsin at Madison

• What is research?

Research is a process of inquiry and discovery that often results in new knowledge. In physics, this means applying math and science to understand the physical world. It’s an important skill for people who want to be researchers or scientists, but it’s also just useful for life in general—you’ll learn how to problem-solve, how to think critically, and how to communicate your ideas clearly.

• Why should you do research?

Research experience exposes you not only to the latest developments in your field, but also teaches you valuable skills that will help you throughout your career. Whether it’s learning how to set up experiments or writing papers together with other students, there are many benefits of participating in research early on in college:

• Learn about different areas of physics through hands-on experience (or via mentoring)
• Build connections with faculty members at top universities across the country
• Develop skills relevant both personally (e.g., leadership/motivation) and professionally (e.g., teamwork/collaboration)

Some examples include:

REU at CalTech in Physics, Mathematics, and Astronomy

CalTech’s REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) program allows undergraduate students to spend their summers working on hands-on research projects in physics, mathematics, and astronomy with prominent faculty members. The application deadline is February 1st each year. Students who are accepted into the program must complete a full-time academic year at Caltech between their sophomore and senior years.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and attend one of the following schools: Caltech, Harvey Mudd College, Pomona College, or Scripps College (all in Claremont CA).

Students are placed on teams that work together on a project that is loosely defined when they arrive at Caltech in June. They will be supervised by an appropriate faculty member who will help guide them through their work and provide feedback throughout the summer.

Engineering and Applied Science Summer Internship Program

• Location: CalTech in Pasadena, CA
• Offered each year during the summer.
• Open to college students who are interested in engineering, science or applied science.
• Interns will work with a faculty member on a research project

There are many paths to success

There are many paths to success, and in this section, I will discuss some of the most common ways of approaching a career in physics. Whether you’re a high school student, college student, or graduate student looking for internships and jobs, there are many options for you!