The NASA Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) Summer Internship Program is an intensive research experience for undergraduates interested in planetary science, offering hands-on involvement in cutting-edge NASA research projects. NASA LPI Summer Internship is a fully funded paid internship program for international students and a prestigious chance to show their talents in the field of science. Hosted by the Lunar and Planetary Institute(LPI) in Houston, Texas, students work alongside renowned scientists on a variety of projects related to the moon, planets, and other bodies in our solar system.
NASA LPI Summer Internship is 10-week paid internship, beginning in June 2025, is open to students worldwide. The 10-week program runs from June 2–August 8, 2025. Summer interns will work one-on-one with a scientist from the LPI or the NASA Johnson Space Center on a research project. Deadline: Typically mid-December each year (12 December 2024 this year).
Institutions:
- Name: Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI)
- Location: Houston, Texas, USA
- Affiliation: NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Programs: Undergraduate internship program in planetary science
- Duration: 10 weeks
Study/ Research Areas:
- Planetary Geology and Surface Processes
- Impact Cratering
- Planetary Remote Sensing and Spectroscopy
- Geochemistry, Petrology and Mineralogy
- Planetary Interiors and Geophysics
- Planetary Atmospheres
- Astrobiology
- Lunar Science and Exploration
- Asteroids and Other Small Bodies
- Icy Satellites
- Meteorites and Sample Analysis
- Interplanetary Dust and Presolar Grains
Internship Benefits:
- Selected interns will receive up to $8056 in financial support to cover the costs associated with their stay in Houston during the program.
- This amount covers the internship stipend, travel, housing, and cost of living expenses. Housing costs are paid directly to the housing vendor on behalf of the intern from this total.
- Housing expense.
- Living expense.
- Travel expense. (up to $1,500 to defray travel expenses.)
- Gaining valuable research experience
- Developing new skills and refining others
- Meeting and working with professionals
- Establishing contacts for letters of reference and networking
- Experiencing a new work environment
Benefits Not Included:
- Visa processing fees
- Health insurance
- Personal expenses
Internship Eligibilities:
- Undergraduate students
- Undergraduates with at least 50 semester hours of credit are eligible.
- Students with majors in physical or natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics are preferred, but all eligible students will be considered.
- Demonstrated interest in planetary research
- Proficiency in English
- Open to international students
Selection is based on these criteria:
- Scholarship, curriculum, and experience
- Career objectives and scientific interest
- Match of applicant’s interest with available research projects
Required Documents:
- Online application form
- All application materials must be submitted in English.
- You must complete all questions on the form, including the essay-style questions.
- Submit at least two (maximum three) letters of recommendation and official transcripts to qualify for the program.
- All official electronic transcripts
- Test Of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score
- A letter from one of the professors in the English department at your college confirming that you have sufficient spoken and written English language skills to successfully participate in the internship program
- CV/Resume
- Statement of interest in planetary science
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Application Process:
- Complete the online application on the LPI website.
- Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your application number and a link to view the status of your letters of recommendation.
- All official electronic transcripts should be sent directly from the college or the college’s vendors to internprogram@lpi.usra.edu.
- Applicant’s college registrar may should send an official transcript to LPI Summer Intern
The program, Application #, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058-1113. - Transcripts must be received by the LPI no later than December 12, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. CST.
- Include your application number in the address you provide to your registrar.
- Submit all other required documents
- Await selection notification via email.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Demonstrate a strong background in planetary science and related subjects.
- Highlight relevant research experience or coursework.
- Seek recommendations from professors familiar with your research potential.
- Tailor your statement of purpose to align with NASA’s mission in planetary exploration.
Why Choose This Program?
- Gain hands-on research experience with NASA’s experts.
- Network with scientists and peers from around the world.
- Enhance your research skills and expand knowledge in planetary science.
- Potential for future career opportunities in space research.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is the duration of the LPI internship program?
- The program typically lasts 10 weeks, from early June to mid-August.
- Are international students eligible to apply?
- Yes, international students are encouraged to apply.
- Is there any provision for housing during the internship?
- Limited funding is available for housing assistance; details are provided upon selection.
- What research areas are available for interns?
- Interns can engage in projects across planetary science, geology, and astrobiology.
- Is there an opportunity to continue research after the internship?
- Some students may have the chance to extend research collaborations depending on project requirements and funding.