NASA JPL Internship Programs: Explore STEM Internship and Research Opportunities for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory offers a wide range of STEM internship, research, and educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, educators, and advanced researchers.
Overview
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), through its Academic Engagement Office, provides diverse science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) opportunities. The directory covers multiple pathways tailored to different academic stages, including year-round internships, summer placements, visiting student research programmes, partner initiatives, and educational workshops.
Eligibility
Eligibility varies significantly across the individual programmes, partner offerings, and workshops managed or highlighted by JPL:
- Undergraduate and Graduate Students: Eligible for core tracks such as the JPL Year-Round Internship Program, JPL Summer Internship Program, JPL Visiting Student Research Program, and broader NASA Internship Programs.
- Doctoral and Postdoctoral Participants: Can explore advanced options such as NASA Science Mission Design Schools and JPL postdoctoral programmes.
- Educators: Opportunities like the NASA/IPAC Teacher Archive Research Program cater to formal and informal educators.
Benefits
Participants gain valuable hands-on experience and professional exposure across various formats:
- Engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research and mission design.
- Flexible session options including year-round, summer, fall, and spring terms.
- Access to preparation resources such as resume guidelines, internship FAQs, and guide materials.
How to Apply
Because there is no single universal application process for all offerings, prospective candidates must follow specific procedures:
- Visit the official JPL Explore Programs & Apply directory to review available programmes.
- Identify the specific opportunity that aligns with your academic level, interest, and availability.
- Open the individual programme page to examine distinct eligibility criteria, required materials, and instructions.
- Submit your application through the designated official channels.
Deadline
There is no single application deadline stated on the main JPL Explore Programs & Apply page because schedules differ across individual programmes, sessions, and partner tracks. Applicants must verify the specific deadline directly on their chosen programme's official page.