Argonne National Laboratory Internship Programs: A Gateway to STEM Careers

Argonne National Laboratory, a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center, offers a variety of internship programs designed to cultivate the next generation of scientists, engineers, and STEM professionals. These programs provide immersive experiences in cutting-edge research and development, supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) missions and fostering long-term relationships with local communities.

Overview of Internship Opportunities

Argonne's internship programs cater to a diverse range of students, from undergraduates to recent graduates, offering opportunities to explore STEM careers and develop valuable skills. Over 100 students each year participate in the various internship opportunities Argonne offers. These internships are structured to provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world STEM applications. Educational Programs and Outreach uses immersive and engaging programs to create STEM pathways for students throughout their journeys. An internship can open many pathways for students. These immersive experiences can expand a young person’s professional network and help them develop marketable skills that are often a ticket to a good first job, particularly in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)-related fields.

Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI) Program

The Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI) program is a cornerstone of Argonne's educational outreach. SULI encourages undergraduate students to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers by providing research internships at one of 15 participating DOE laboratories. This program, sponsored and managed by the DOE Office of Science’s Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists (WDTS) in collaboration with DOE laboratories/facilities, places students in research internships at participating DOE laboratories.

Program Structure and Expectations

Under the guidance of laboratory staff scientists or engineers, students perform research on projects supporting the Department of Energy (DOE)‘s missions. Internship opportunities are available during the following terms: Summer (10 weeks), Fall (15 weeks), and Spring (15 weeks). A typical SULI experience begins with an orientation week, where students work with an Argonne supervising staff member devising a research strategy and attending mandatory safety classes. For the next few weeks, the supervisor will provide considerable program assistance and guidance to implement the research plan. Subsequently, the student will be expected to complete a pre and post-survey, an oral or poster presentation, a 1500 - 3000-word research report, and a one-page peer review.

Application Tips for SULI

Applying for internships can be daunting, but Argonne provides resources to help students excel. Applicants should familiarize themselves with the eligibility requirements, participant obligations, and benefits of SULI. Reviewing past intern highlights can provide insight into the potential experience. It's crucial to verify key dates and processes for the desired internship term and consult the frequently asked questions. The SULI application checklist and guides offer valuable assistance with transcripts, recommendations, and essay writing. Attending a SULI application workshop can further empower applicants.

Bridge Into Internships Program

Recognizing the need to broaden access to STEM fields, Argonne has launched the Bridge Into Internships program. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Argonne National Laboratory has launched an innovative workforce development program known as Bridge Into Internships. This immersive eight-week summer internship aims to break down the barriers that have hindered students from underserved communities from pursuing and excelling in STEM fields. Under this initiative, Argonne is collaborating closely with schools in nine South Side communities: Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Greater Grand Crossing, Hyde Park, Kenwood, Oakland, South Shore, Washington Park and Woodlawn. The program offers real-world exposure to STEM careers as well as professional mentoring.

Program Features

In the program, the students work two days a week with scientific mentors at Argonne, gaining valuable exposure to the research and innovation taking place at the laboratory. "When I first arrived at Argonne, all the science here seemed a little out of reach to people like me,” said South Shore High School senior Saul Arroyo. The Bridge Into Internships program is one facet of Argonne’s commitment to fostering long-term relationships with South Side communities, actively supporting and nurturing talented students from diverse backgrounds through its Argonne in Chicago initiative. Argonne continues to maintain a relationship with the students as they go through college. “There is true engagement at every step of the way with the students,” he said. “Working as colleagues with our mentors, I’ve gotten to see the types of people they are and their educational backgrounds, and I’ve noticed there’s both passion and real diversity,” said University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign incoming freshman Taniya Givens. In addition to the Bridge Into Internships program, Argonne has also launched a STEM Mapping project to identify STEM-related resources and programming, including makerspaces and computer labs, that currently exist in the nine South Side communities.

Addressing Barriers to STEM

Argonne recognizes the barriers that students from underserved communities face in pursuing STEM careers. “Many high school students have incredible potential in STEM but, for one reason or another, may never have the formative experiences that are essential to strengthening their STEM pathways beyond graduation. “This program is different from any other educational program Argonne offers because it is three-pronged,” added Argonne Manager of STEM Education Partnerships and Outreach Jessica Burgess. This initiative aims to provide these students with the necessary experiences and support to succeed in STEM fields.

Professional Career Internship Program

For students seeking practical experience in a professional setting, the Professional Career Internship program offers a range of opportunities. Professional Career Internship positions range from long-term to short-term appointments, with both part-time and full-time options. Students perform their internship under the guidance of laboratory operations staff on projects supporting Argonne’s mission. A student will spend the first week of his/her Argonne experience with an Argonne staff member devising a strategy and attending mandatory safety classes. The Professional Career Internship application has a rolling deadline.

Financial and Logistical Information

Stipends and Housing

Interns receive financial support during their appointments. During the appointment period, participants receive a stipend of $600 per week and on-site housing. Dormitory type lodging is available on-site at no direct cost to the student. Students choosing to live in the on-site student housing are required to have a valid major credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or American Express only) when checking in. This will be used for the security deposit. In addition, your card will also be charged the first week of each month for the prior month’s charges. You will be reimbursed in your pay check. Please be advised that the Guest House, which is managed by Sodexo, is on a different billing cycle than Argonne. By the time students receive their last paycheck, students will have received full reimbursement for their housing. For the use of debit cards, students may receive authorizations during their stay. These authorizations are usually removed 7 business days after your check-out depending on your financial institution.

Read also: Eligibility for National Awards

Travel Reimbursement

To facilitate participation, Argonne provides travel reimbursement under certain conditions. Travel will be paid only for students whose permanent and school addresses are more than fifty miles away from Argonne. Travel expenses are reimbursed consistent with the terms detailed in the laboratory acceptance letter. Travel reimbursement is based on a round-trip from the traveler’s trip origin (trip origin to Argonne and Argonne back to trip origin). Transportation expenses will be reimbursed on the basis of the most direct route. Travel by a private automobile will be reimbursed at the current government rate up to a maximum of $500.00 round-trip, not to exceed the cost of round-trip coach airfare. No per diem or lodging costs will be reimbursed while en route. We will calculate distance according to MapQuest. Students will receive their reimbursement check three to four weeks after their arrival. If students are traveling to Argonne via air, Argonne must make the travel arrangements. Students will not be reimbursed if they make their own flight arrangements.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to participate in Argonne's internship programs. citizen or Legal Permanent Resident at the time of applying. Pass a screening drug test. Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne’s Legal Department.

Application Process and Deadlines

The application process varies depending on the specific internship program. For the SULI program, the summer 2024 application is now open and accepting applications. For full summer consideration for other programs, please apply by March 1st of that year. The Professional Career Internship application has a rolling deadline.

Writing Samples

For certain internships, such as those in communications or related fields, writing samples are a crucial part of the application. Submit three (3) writing samples. Writing samples weigh most heavily in the selection process. We recommend stories and articles about science, written for a public audience. This can include samples written specifically for this application or for classes; or writing published in newspapers, magazines, or blogs (including student newspapers).

Argonne's Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Argonne National Laboratory is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Argonne can help undergrads grow, choose, and hone their areas of interest with programs that immerse them in cutting-edge research and discovery in all areas of the Lab. Argonne pursues discovery by pushing boundaries, challenging ourselves and each other, and stretching our abilities. By providing opportunities to students from all backgrounds, Argonne aims to cultivate a workforce that reflects the diversity of the nation and contributes to scientific excellence.

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