About the role
LPI Summer Intern Program
Training the Next Generation of Planetary Scientists Since 1977
Marking a Milestone: Celebrating the 50th Year of the LPI Intern Program in Planetary Science
Learn About the LPI Summer Intern Program
The LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research alongside leading planetary scientists. During the 10-week internship, students conduct meaningful research and participate in enrichment activities, including lectures and career development workshops.
The benefits of this internship include:
- Developing new skills and refining others
- Meeting and working with professionals
- Establishing contacts for letters of reference and networking
- Experiencing a new work environment
Many of today’s leaders in planetary science began their journey through the LPI Summer Intern Program. As we celebrate 50 years of impact, we invite you to become part of this legacy.
About Us: The LPI is located near the NASA Johnson Space Center on the southeast side of Houston, Texas. It provides leadership in the scientific community for research in lunar, planetary, and solar system sciences and links with related terrestrial programs. The internships are funded through NASA’s Support for Planetary Sample Science.
Program Overview
The Lunar and Planetary Institute invites students who have completed at least 50 semester hours of credit to participate in cutting-edge research in the lunar and planetary sciences. Students with majors in physical or natural sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics are preferred, but all eligible students will be considered.
The 10-week program runs from June 1–August 7, 2026. Summer interns will work one-on-one with a scientist from the LPI or the NASA Johnson Space Center on a research project.
Selections are made based on information provided in the submitted application, such as academic experience and scientific interests, as well as specific research project requirements. Selected participants will be notified in March 2026. Interns participating in person will be located either at the Lunar and Planetary Institute or the NASA Johnson Space Center, both in Houston, Texas.