Space Science Institute Graduate Intern - Summer 2027

About the role

We have multiple openings for graduate students to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals within Lawrence Livermore National Lab's (LLNL) Space Science Institute (SSI).

Opportunities include participation in projects led by LLNL scientists in research areas including: Astrophysics and cosmology (Optical astronomy and cosmology, X-ray astrophysics, and X-ray laboratory astrophysics), Planetary science (Cosmochemistry, and Planetary defense), Technology and instrument development (Adaptive optics, Gamma-ray spectrometers, SmallSat capabilities for science missions, and X-ray and extreme ultraviolet optics).

These positions are in the Space Science Institute summer internship program. SSI summer internship assignments are 10-12 weeks starting from early June to mid-September. Please submit both a curriculum vitae and a cover letter. The cover letter should be no more than one page and should include a description of why you wish to work at LLNL and how you would like to contribute to SSI research at LLNL.

To receive full consideration, applications must be submitted by January 22, 2027. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work. You will Work with scientists conducting research in astronomy, planetary science or a related field. This may include experiments, data analysis and interpretation, theory or modeling simulation, and/or isotopic analysis of planetary materials.

Conduct research in assigned areas under close direction and supervision. Perform scientific assignments at an appropriate level of complexity and work collaboratively on scientific research and development projects. Analyze results and provide weekly updates. Present work through presentations and/or poster sessions. Perform other duties as assigned.

Pay and benefits

Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.

Must have a bachelor's degree at the start of the internship in science, engineering, or a related field and either intend to pursue a PhD in astronomy, planetary science, or a related field, or be enrolled in good standing in a master's or PhD program in a relevant field at an accredited institution.

Applicants should demonstrate preparation and interest in pursuing advanced research in astronomy, planetary science, or a related field. Preference may be given to applicants who have applied to or been accepted into a relevant PhD program. Demonstrated academic achievement in astronomy, planetary science or a related field. Ability to apply basic engineering or scientific principles to solve technical problems.

Demonstrated effective communication skills. Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas. Familiarity with modern computer-based data analysis approaches, summarizing and presenting results. Ability to work in a team environment. Pay Range $6,752 - $8,201 Monthly This position is under a step structure. Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory? Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor! However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.

To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112. Pre-Employment Drug Test External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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