Space Science Institute Graduate Intern – Summer 2026 | Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Published
October 6, 2025
Expires
January 4, 2026
Location
Livermore, CA
Job Type
Internship  
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0

Description

Space Science Institute Graduate Intern - Summer 2026

 Internship |  Full-time
Students |  Livermore, CA |  10/01/2025

Reference #: REF7481Q
Job Code: 705.2 Grad Student R&D/Technical / 712.0 Intern Exempt
Organization: Physical and Life Sciences
Position Type: Student Intern
Security Clearance: None/Position does not require US citizenship (assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation)
Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
Medical Exam: Not applicable

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Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are dedicated to fostering a culture that values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives, recognizing their importance to the continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

Pay Range

$6,620 - $8,040 Monthly

This position is under a step structure.  Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year.

Job Description

We have multiple openings for graduate students or students that have recently graduated with a bachelor's or master's degree to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals within the LLNL Space Science Institute (SSI). Opportunities include participation in projects led by LLNL scientists in research areas including: Astrophysics and cosmology (Optical astronomy and cosmology, X-ray astrophysics, and X-ray laboratory astrophysics), Planetary science (Cosmochemistry, and Planetary defense), Technology and instrument development (Adaptive optics, Gamma-ray spectrometers, SmallSat capabilities for science missions, and X-ray and extreme ultraviolet optics). These positions are in the Space Science Institute summer internship program. Details about LLNL's Space Science Institute may be found at: https://space-science.llnl.gov.

SSI summer internship assignments are 10-12 weeks starting from early June to mid-September.

Please submit both a curriculum vitae and a cover letter. The cover letter should be no more than one page and should include a description of why you wish to work at LLNL and how you would like to contribute to SSI research at LLNL.

To receive full consideration, applications must be submitted by January 16, 2026.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will

  • Work with scientists conducting research in astronomy, planetary science or a related field. This may include experiments, data analysis and interpretation, theory or modeling simulation, and/or isotopic analysis of planetary materials.
  • Conduct research in assigned areas under close direction and supervision.
  • Perform scientific assignments at an appropriate level of complexity and work collaboratively on scientific research and development projects.
  • Analyze results and provide weekly updates.
  • Present work through presentations and/or poster sessions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  See Additional Information section below for details.
  • Must be a continuing student in good standing at an accredited institution pursuing a master’s or PhD degree in a field of science, engineering, or an equivalent.
  • Demonstrated academic achievement in astronomy, planetary science or a related field.
  • Ability to apply basic engineering or scientific principles to solve technical problems.
  • Demonstrated effective communication skills.
  • Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
  • Familiarity with modern computer-based data analysis approaches, summarizing and presenting results.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.

Additional Information

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

Security Clearance

None required.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  (This process does not apply to foreign nationals.)

Only registered members can apply for jobs.