Space Science Institute Graduate Intern - Summer 2026

LLNL•Livermore, CA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

We have multiple openings for graduate students or students that have recently graduated with a bachelor's or master's degree to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals within the 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. Details about LLNL's Space Science Institute may be found at: https://space-science.llnl.gov . 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 16, 2026. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

Requirements

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 be a continuing student in good standing at an accredited institution pursuing a master’s or PhD degree in a field of science, engineering, or an equivalent.
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.

Responsibilities

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.