Summer Research Internship Program

Each summer, Yerkes offers a paid, on-site undergraduate research and science communication internship. Each cohort of interns is immersed in science and outreach at Yerkes through:

• Learning to use and analyze data from our on-site telescopes, including our 0.6-meter and 1-meter reflectors and 40" Great Refractor.
• Digitizing and analyzing images from our historic glass plate collection to gain valuable experience in long baseline time domain astronomy.
• Engaging in science communication training and supporting Yerkes public programming.
• Applying their skills by presenting their work at a professional astronomy conference following the internship.

Internship FAQs

Who can participate?

Current undergraduate students and recent graduates who completed their degree in May or later are eligible to apply, provided they are not currently enrolled in a graduate program. Applicants should be pursuing or have recently completed a degree in astronomy, physics, computer science, or a related STEM field.

The program is open to both domestic and international students enrolled at accredited U.S. institutions. U.S. citizens attending international institutions are also eligible to apply.

Students attending community colleges and two-year institutions are encouraged to apply.

Where does the program take place?

The internship is conducted in person at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin.

What will participants do?

Interns will:

• Learn to use and analyze data from Yerkes’ on-site telescopes, including the 0.6- meter and 1-meter reflectors and the historic 40-inch Great Refractor.
• Digitize and analyze images from the observatory’s historic glass plate collection, gaining valuable experience in long-baseline time-domain astronomy.
• Participate in science communication training and support Yerkes public programming.
• Present their work at a professional astronomy conference following the internship.

Is housing provided?

Yes. Yerkes provides on-site housing, including a private bedroom for each intern and access to a shared kitchen. Some meals are provided, but interns are generally responsible for their own food.

Is there a stipend?

Yes. Interns receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program. Travel reimbursement may also be provided.

How do I apply?

Application information will be available early next year.

Please note: The use of ChatGPT and other Al tools is permitted, but applicants must disclose their use in the application. Applications that appear to have used Al tools without disclosure will not be considered.

When will I be notified?

Applicants will be notified of their status by email in early March prior to the internship beginning in June.

Who should I contact with questions?

Please direct questions about the program to science-info@yerkesobservatory.org.