Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory Science Education Internship
This is an 8–10-week, full-time paid summer internship hosted by PPPL’s Science Education department, taking place from late June through early August at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in New Jersey. Interns work 40 hours per week alongside PPPL scientists and engineers on experimental or computational plasma physics projects. The program includes lab work, lectures, skill-building seminars, and concludes with a final presentation of their research.
Eligibility and Application Information
Applicants must be graduating high school seniors, at least 16 years old, and U.S. citizens or permanent residents; housing is not provided and commuters must arrange their own accommodations. Applications open around November 22 and close by March 1, requiring transcripts and likely a statement of interest via the online form. PPPL typically notifies finalists by late spring.
Pay
Interns receive a weekly stipend of about $500 per week for full-time lab work over eight to ten weeks. The program is fully funded, but housing and transportation are the student’s responsibility, and there is no weekend or evening engagement.
Prestige
The PPPL Science Education Internship is highly prestigious and competitive, known within plasma physics circles for rigorous lab training and mentorship from national lab staff. Reddit users describe it as “very competitive,” and past interns are selective, marking it as a notable addition to STEM résumés.