LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science

Lunar and Planetary Institute (USRA)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Undergraduates with at least 50 semester credit hours, mostly in physical or natural science, engineering, computer science or maths. Citizens of countries designated by the US State Department are not eligible (check the designated-countries list before applying).

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Hosted by the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, Texas, in collaboration with planetary scientists at NASA’s Johnson Space Center (JSC), this 10-week summer internship pairs ~12 international and US undergraduates one-on-one with a planetary scientist. Interns conduct original research on lunar samples, Martian geochemistry, meteorite petrology, planetary geophysics, or icy moons, write a formal LPSC conference abstract, and receive an extra style="padding-top:40px",000 grant to present at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference the following March.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Undergraduates with at least 50 semester credit hours, mostly in physical or natural science, engineering, computer science or maths. Citizens of countries designated by the US State Department are not eligible (check the designated-countries list before applying).
2. Note the deadline. Oct – Dec (annual; the application closes in early December for the following summer) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Structured Essay Questions: Statements describing your scientific background, laboratory or analytical skills (spectroscopy, microscopy, GIS, coding), and why you want to explore planetary science.; Official University Transcripts: Confirming completion of at least 50 credit hours in STEM/Earth sciences.; Two to Three Reference Letters: Submitted online by academic professors or research supervisors..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Independent Scoring of Academic Record & Essays → Matching by LPI & NASA JSC Planetary Scientists based on Specific Project Needs (Jan–Feb) → Notification in March.

Profile of past winners

Geology, chemistry, physics, and materials science undergraduates who highlight analytical instrumentation (SEM, XRD, Raman, isotope geochemistry) or numerical modeling skills applicable to planetary materials.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science?

Undergraduates with at least 50 semester credit hours, mostly in physical or natural science, engineering, computer science or maths. Citizens of countries designated by the US State Department are not eligible (check the designated-countries list before applying).

What does LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science cover?

A paid 10-week internship at LPI in Houston; stipend and travel support are set each year

When is the deadline for LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science?

Oct – Dec (annual; the application closes in early December for the following summer) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science?

Structured Essay Questions: Statements describing your scientific background, laboratory or analytical skills (spectroscopy, microscopy, GIS, coding), and why you want to explore planetary science.; Official University Transcripts: Confirming completion of at least 50 credit hours in STEM/Earth sciences.; Two to Three Reference Letters: Submitted online by academic professors or research supervisors..

How are applicants selected for LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science?

Independent Scoring of Academic Record & Essays → Matching by LPI & NASA JSC Planetary Scientists based on Specific Project Needs (Jan–Feb) → Notification in March.

How much work is the LPI Summer Intern Program in Planetary Science application?

Very High: Online LPI Application + Short Essay Responses + Selection of Preferred Planetary Science Topics + Official Transcripts + 2–3 Reference Letters