Are you passionate about space, science, and discovery? Applications are now open for the 2026 Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) Summer Internship in the USA — a fully funded opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in planetary science research.
This prestigious 10-week program allows both U.S. and international students to work alongside leading scientists at the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) and NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Participants will engage in cutting-edge research, explore exciting career paths, and contribute to advancing our understanding of the solar system.
Program Overview
- Host Country: United States
- Program Name: LPI Summer Internship 2026
- Internship Duration: 10 Weeks
- Dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: December 12, 2025
Internship Location
Selected interns will be based at:
- Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) or
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, USA
Financial Benefits
The LPI Summer Internship provides a total financial package of $13,351 USD, which includes:
- Round-trip airfare to and from Houston, Texas
- Full stipend to cover living costs and research expenses
- Housing (directly paid to the vendor)
- Daily living expenses
- Bonus of $1,500 upon successful completion of the internship
This support ensures that every selected student can focus entirely on learning, research, and discovery — without financial worry.
Preferred Academic Backgrounds
Students majoring in the following disciplines are highly encouraged to apply:
- Physical Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
However, motivated students from other related fields are also welcome to apply!
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 LPI Summer Internship, applicants must:
- Be undergraduate students who have completed at least 50 semester hours of coursework
- Be citizens of any country, including the USA
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (no mandatory IELTS requirement)
- Be available for the full internship duration (June 1–August 7, 2026)
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following:
- Completed online application form
- Two to three reference letters
- Official academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (any one of the following):
- TOEFL or IELTS score
- A letter from your institution confirming English language skills
- TOEFL or IELTS score
Why Apply for the LPI Internship?
The LPI Summer Internship is more than just a research experience — it’s a stepping stone into the world of space exploration and scientific innovation. Participants gain:
- Real-world experience with NASA scientists
- Professional mentorship and networking opportunities
- A strong foundation for graduate studies or careers in STEM
How to Apply
The application process is online — paper applications will not be accepted. Interested applicants should complete the online application form and upload all required documents before the deadline.
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