REU Programs and Paid Internships

These are established programs that provide paid opportunities to conduct biologically-related research, and typically involve an individual research project.  They are listed in chronological order by posting date.  You can also browse the National Science Foundation REU Programs by topic and location.

UVM students can earn credits for qualifying internship experiences, whether during the academic year or in Summer.  These are organized through a student’s college or department: College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)College of Agriculture & Life Sciences (CALS)Rubenstein School for the Environment & Natural Resources (RSENR).  CAS’s Summer Internship Scholarship Program can provide students with up to $3,000 to help cover their food, rent, transportation, and/or other living expenses while doing an internship.

Spring 2026

none at this time…

Summer 2026

12/11 – American Heart Association Summer Research Program – OR

The University of Oregon American Heart Association Summer Research Program (UO AHA) offers fellowship opportunities for undergraduates from both UO and other institutions to participate in a 10-week mentored research experience involving research related to AHA’s mission. AHA’s mission is “to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.” Thus, research opportunities involve research with important implications for human health.

The aims of the program include contributing to the national efforts to diversify the pool of highly trained biomedical researchers, enhancing access to research careers for students with limited access to research facilities and experience, and training graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to be effective mentors. Students who identify as members of historically underrepresented groups in the sciences by race, ethnicity, disadvantaged status, low socio-economic status, first generation to attend college status, disability status, and students from institutions offering only limited access to research opportunities are strongly encouraged to apply.

UO AHA is currently accepting applications for summer 2026. Tentative program dates are June 16 – August 21, 2026.

AHA
12/11 – Summer Undergraduate Internship Program (SUIP) in Biomedical Science – PA

The University of Pennsylvania Summer Undergraduate Internship Program (SUIP) is a prestigious 10-week immersive research experience for undergraduate students aspiring to pursue doctoral studies (PhD or MD-PhD) in the biomedical sciences. 

All applications are due on February 1st, 2026.

https://www.med.upenn.edu/research-trainee-affairs/suip

12/11 – Brain Research Institute Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (BRI-SURE) – CA
12/11 – NIH Summer Internship Programs – various locations

An opportunity for students in college, graduate, and professional school to perform a summer research internship in the Intramural Research Program at the NIH.

https://www.training.nih.gov/research-training/pb/sip

12/11 – Environmental Education Paid Internship – NJ

The Wetlands Institute is a non-profit organization in southern New Jersey whose mission is to promote appreciation, understanding and stewardship of wetlands and coastal ecosystems through our programs in research, education and conservation. Interns will help lead programs for all ages, interact directly with live marine animals, teach outreach programs, and assist with a variety of other programs and special events to promote the New Jersey Shore.

This internship is designed to introduce you to the Environmental Education and Interpretation profession and further your career, all while you explore one of America’s most incredible natural areas. So if being wet, muddy, and happy at day’s end sounds like your dream job, then we want you at The Wetlands Institute!

As Environmental Education Interns, you will lead or participate in the following:

Educational Salt Marsh Safari Walks

Fishing, Seining and Crabbing Programs

Aquarium Feeding Programs

Daily Creature Feature Presentations

Interpretive Dune, Beach and Nature Walks

Aquarium Animal Care

Coordinating Special Events

Summer Nature Program, Local Outreach Events, School Programs, and much more!

This internship has the following requirements:

A degree in biology, marine biology, environmental science, education or related field

Must have completed at least two years of college

Reliable transportation, automobile preferred

Must be comfortable working on boats

Housing is NOT provided. All interns must live or be able to commute locally.

One weekend day is required, and schedules may include holidays.

Length of Internship: The required duration of the internship is from May 18 – August 16, 2026. Specific dates are somewhat flexible (+/- a day or two) to suit varying schedules, but interns must be available for the full duration of the program.

Compensation: Interns work no more than 40 hours per week and are compensated at NJ Minimum Wage. One weekend day is required, and schedules may include holidays.

To apply, please submit a complete application package which includes:  cover letter, resume and completed internship application form.  Internship application forms may be downloaded from our website at:  http://wetlandsinstitute.org/education/internship-opportunities/

12/11 – Harvard Forest Summer Research Program in Ecology – MA

The Harvard Forest Summer Research Program in Ecology is an immersive research experience, connecting undergraduate students to mentors and researchers in the pursuit of scientific inquiry. Each year, 15-25 undergraduates from across the US live and work at the 4,000-acre Harvard Forest for 11 weeks. Students work with a research mentor in interdisciplinary team-based projects focused on how ecosystems change over time, especially in response to human and natural disturbance.

Harvard Forest is Harvard University’s world-class ecological research hub at the nexus of many national and international scientific networks, which Summer Program students leverage to conduct research and build their careers through:

·       Research: Work collaboratively to solve environmental problems using scientific methods.  

·       Education: Bridge from student to scientist, build marketable skills, learn how to use and understand data

·       Community: Join scientists at a world-class virtual research hub to expand your network

Program Details for 2026:  

·       The 11-week program dates are May 26 to August 7, 2026  

·       Includes $7,700 stipend, plus full room & board, and travel to/from Harvard Forest

·       Applications are currently open and are due Feb. 6, 2026:  https://etap.nsf.gov/award/7205/opportunity/11592

·       Questions?  See FAQ or contact hf-srpe@fas.harvard.edu

12/11 – Coastal Conservation Research Internship – NJ

The Wetlands Institute is a non-profit organization in southern New Jersey whose mission is to promote appreciation, understanding and stewardship of wetlands and coastal ecosystems through our programs in research, education and conservation. Join us this summer for a 10-week immersive research internship program in southern New Jersey. Explore coastal salt marshes, barrier islands, and Delaware Bay beaches while gaining hands-on experience studying diamondback terrapins, coastal birds, horseshoe crabs, wetland and coastal ecosystem dynamics, and more.

The Coastal Conservation Research Program (CCRP) offers summer internships for undergraduate students pursuing careers in conservation biology, wildlife biology, ecology, and coastal ecosystem sciences. Research interns participate in a variety of field studies, engage with local community members, and contribute to long-term conservation projects. The CCRP internship promotes professional development as research interns conduct independent research projects and present the results of their studies at our annual Intern Symposium.

Intern schedules encompass outdoor fieldwork, hands-on experience working with wildlife, experimental design, data collection, and analysis. Applicants must be available for the full duration of the 10-week program. The internship period in 2026 is expected to start no earlier than May 25 and end no later than August 4. Interns work a 40 hour/week schedule and are compensated at NJ Minimum Wage. Schedules may include weekends and holidays, early mornings and evening hours. Housing is not provided; applicants must live or be able to commute locally. Two years of college and reliable transportation are required.

Application Process: To be considered, please submit by email an application package with these five documents: completed application form, resume, transcript, statement of interest (2-pg max), and reference letter. For more details on the program, application instructions, and to download the research internship application form visit: wetlandsinstitute.org/research/ccrp/

Applications must be received by February 9, 2026.

12/11 – Land Stewardship & Ecology Internship at Longwood Gardens – PA

Hello! We are pleased to announce that our 2026 year-long internship with the Land Stewardship and Ecology program at Longwood Gardens is open for applications. 

Link to applyhttps://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=181b5b63-e5e7-4ecf-8085-a1618c3e9975&ccId=9200684794522_2&jobId=575703&lang=en_US

Position Details:

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul. 

Join our Land Stewardship & Ecology team for a 12-month internship managing our 700+ diverse acres of forests, meadows, wetlands, streams, ponds, and agricultural lands in a southeastern Pennsylvania Piedmont landscape. You will be immersed in both the practice of land stewardship and the science of ecology, learning from varied experiences that range from restoration of native plant communities and scientific data collection to GIS mapping and invasive species management.

To learn more about our Land Stewardship & Ecology program please see https://longwoodgardens.org/blog/2023-04-26/stewardship-science-testing-techniques-benefit-biodiversity or https://longwoodgardens.org/blog/2022-04-06/stewarding-and-learning-our-land

What you gain:

  • Hands-on experience in:
    • Ecological restoration planting
    • Meadow management
    • Trail maintenance 
    • Invasive species management
    • Collecting and analyzing data
  • Opportunities to:
    • Help advance scientific research in ecology and test innovative land stewardship practices
    • Engage with volunteers and participate in educational programs related to land stewardship
    • Obtain a Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator License 
  • Exposure to experts in scientific ecology, native plant horticulture, wildlife management, and ecological landscape design

Qualifications:

  • Currently enrolled in or completed (graduated in May 2025 or later) an associate or bachelor’s degree in ecology, botany, environmental science, or a related field
  • A passion for land stewardship and conservation
  • High degree of motivation, organization, and attention to detail, and willingness to work independently 
  • The ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, working from ladders, bending, stooping, lifting at least 50 pounds, and operating small equipment
  • A valid driver’s license is required
  • U.S.-based individuals only (for international internship program, https://longwoodgardens.org/education/international-programs/international-internship-training-program).

The internship will run from June 1, 2026 to May 6, 2027.

Application deadline is January 15, 2026. Reviewing will begin in January, and interviews will be conducted through February 18, 2026.

Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance through Independence Administrators 
  • Free furnished housing on the grounds of Longwood Gardens (this is a taxable benefit). For further details about housing https://longwoodgardens.org/education/college-university-programs/student-housing-benefits.
  • All utilities are included except cable television
  • 96 hours of personal time and 9 paid holidays
  • Weekly field trips, hands-on workshops, lectures, and conferences
  • Complimentary tickets to Longwood Gardens for friends and family 
  • 50% discount at The Café and 25% discount in The Garden Shop

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.

12/11 – REU position in plant disease ecology – FL

The Flory Lab (www.florylab.com) at the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, FL is seeking an undergraduate for a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position for summer 2026. This position is part of a larger research project funded by the NIFA/NSF/NIH Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Disease program aimed at understanding the mechanisms of pathogen spillover across ecosystem boundaries mediated by an invasive grass. With the help of mentors, the REU student will develop an independent project, acquiring skills in question formulation, experimental design and execution, data analysis, and science communication. Experiments for this project may involve inoculating invasive, native, and/or crop plants with a fungal pathogen to test possible causal relationships observed in the field. The REU student will work closely with Jason Sckrabulis, a postdoc in the Flory lab, and Luke Flory, one of the project principal investigators, and will interact with other UF researchers involved in the project. Previous REU projects in the lab were very successful, leading to publication (REU participant bolded): 

  • Benitez L., A.E. Kendig, A. Adhikari, K. Clay, P.F. Harmon, R. Holt, E. Goss, and S.L. Flory. 2022. Invasive grass litter suppresses a native grass species and promotes disease. Ecospherehttps://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.3907 
  • Kendig A.E., V.J. Svahnström, A. Adhikari, P.F. Harmon, and S.L. Flory. 2021. Emerging fungal pathogen of an invasive grass: Implications for competition with native plant species. PloS Onehttps://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0237894 

Applicants must be enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program with an anticipated graduation date after September 2026 and must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (including possessions/territories). The ideal candidate will be interested in pursuing a graduate degree or career in ecology, evolution, environmental science, or biology following graduation. Previous experience in plant disease ecology is not required. 

The REU position is 10 weeks in duration during summer 2026 with a flexible start date and a total stipend of $5100. Transportation and housing are not included. 

To apply, send the following to Jason Sckrabulis at jason.sckrabulis@gmail.com (if possible combined as a single Word or PDF file): 

  1. A brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience, interest in the position, and career goals (maximum one page, single spaced) 
  1. A resume or CV 
  1. Undergraduate transcript (official or unofficial) 
  1. Contact information for two references (faculty members are preferred) 

Please email Jason with any questions. Review of applications will begin immediately, with a final submission date of January 15, 2026, with an offer being made by February 15, 2026. 

12/2 – Oceanography Internship for Undergraduates at UC San Diego – CA

The Marine Physical Laboratory (MPL) at the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego is now seeking curious, motivated undergraduates with strong quantitative skills to apply for the 2026 MPL Summer Internship Program.

This paid, eight-week research program provides students the opportunity to work on their own individual research project under the guidance of leading scientists in the field. Interns also participate in weekly seminars, hands-on activities, and professional development events. Participants receive an hourly wage of $18.25.

Research areas include:

  • Acoustics and Infrasound
  • Applied Ocean Sciences
  • Autonomous Ocean Platforms and Global Observing Systems
  • Coastal Oceanography
  • Internal Waves and Ocean Mixing
  • Marine Mammal Biology
  • Marine Robotics
  • Nonlinear and Surface Waves
  • Ocean Acoustics
  • Ocean Instrumentation and Technology
  • Ocean–Atmosphere Interactions
  • Physical Oceanography
  • Population and Community Ecology
  • Upper Ocean and Submesoscale Processes

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled as a second-year, or third-year undergraduates. (Senior-year undergraduates, former MPL interns, and high-school students are not eligible.)
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the internship start date.
  • Applicants must be available to begin in June 2026 and work 40 hours per week for the full 8 consecutive weeks.

Application Procedure: To learn more and apply, please visit: https://mpl.ucsd.edu/internships/.

Applications are due Friday, January 23, 2026, at midnight Pacific Time.
Applicants will be notified of decisions by the end of April.

Contact: For questions, please email: mpl-internship@ucsd.edu.

12/2 – UChicago Data Science Summer Lab – IL

Applications for the 2026 University of Chicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab are now open. In this paid summer research program, high school and undergraduate students are paired with faculty mentors to conduct research in basic and applied data science. 

Through this pairing, students engage with and hone their skills in research methodologies, practices, and teamwork. We encourage participation from a broad range of students, and require no prior research experience to apply.

The application is available here. It closes on January 12th at 11:59pm CT. Full application requirements can be found on our website. In addition, an upcoming virtual information session will take place on December 10 at 5pm CT. Students are welcome to register for the session here.

Application (due 1/12/26): Summer Lab Application 

Information Session (12/10 at 5pm CT): Register here

Website: DSI Summer Lab 

Questions? Email datascience@uchicago.edu 

12/2 – UCSC Conservation Leadership Immersion (CLIME) Program – CA

Applications for the University of California Santa Cruz Conservation Leadership Immersion Program (conservationleadership.ucsc.eduare available today through February 1, 2026. Our goal is to serve students from groups with ideas, perspectives and experiences traditionally underrepresented in conservation who can contribute to broadening, redefining, and strengthening efforts to protect land, wildlife, and water.  

In March we will select 8 undergraduate Scholars from around the country to participate in a two-week conservation immersion program followed by an 8-week summer internship. Each Scholar receives a $10,800 stipend for living expenses and housing.  

The beginning of the program (May 31 – June 13, 2026) starts with a two-week, immersive field course on conservation practice, leadership, and ecological research on UC Natural Reserves from the coast to the mountains in Central California. For the remainder of the summer (June 15 – August 8, 2026), Scholars pursue eight-week research and practice internships with nationally recognized research labs or conservation organizations. Professional development workshops during Fall 2026 prepare Scholars to apply for jobs and graduate school. In summer 2027, Scholars will attend a national research conference. Throughout the program, we work with each Scholar to provide ongoing mentoring support that continues past program completion as alumni, and they join a nationwide alumni network for peer support and professional networking.

We serve all students who can study in the United States without a visa (including citizens, nationals, residents, refugees, DACA, undocumented, and more) and who are currently juniors or seniors at a 4-year college or university. We highly encourage applicants from groups whose ideas, perspectives, and experiences are underrepresented in environmental conservation to apply. Visit our FAQ for more questions about eligibility and criteria.

For more information, visit conservationleadership.ucsc.edu or email us at scholars@ucsc.edu.  

11/20 – STAR Program in Biomedical Sciences – GA

The mission of the STAR program (Student  Training  And Research) is to serve as a recruiting mechanism and to provide outstanding hands-on research opportunities for undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a research PhD degree in biomedical sciences, nursing or biostatistics at Augusta University. STAR participants engage in research in a supportive environment under the guidance of an Augusta University faculty member and their research team. This level of experiential training provides participants with excellent preparation, relevant knowledge, and practical skills needed to pursue a career in research.

https://www.augusta.edu/gradschool/star/index

11/20 – Pharmacology (& others!) Summer Research Programs – MI

Join us for an exciting summer research experience in Ann Arbor Michigan!  Applications are especially encouraged from students with research experience who wish to pursue a Ph.D. in the basic sciences. 

https://medschool.umich.edu/departments/pharmacology/education/undergraduate-summer-research-program – 2026 Pharmacology Internship Dates:  May 26, 2026 – July  31, 2026

https://medschool.umich.edu/programs-admissions/non-degree-programs/undergraduate-research-programs

11/20 – Research Innovation in NeuroScience Education for Underserved Populations (RISE UP) – OH

The RISE UP Program is a NIH-funded summer undergraduate research program designed to expose students to research opportunities in top-notch neuroscience laboratories at the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. 

https://med.uc.edu/education/neurosciencesgrad/program-activities/rise-up-undergraduate-fellowship

11/20 – MDI Biological Laboratory’s REU, Comparative Regenerative Biology and Aging – ME

The MDI Biological Laboratory’s REU program aims to engage students in scientific explorations in the Laboratory’s research focus area, Comparative Regenerative Biology and Aging, while providing them with opportunities to build skills important to successful careers in the biological sciences. Research opportunities focus on uncovering basic cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying regenerative and aging processes in various animal model systems, including zebrafish, African turquoise killifish, nematodes and axolotls. 

11/20 – Princeton Neuroscience Institute SIP – NJ

http://pni.princeton.edu/summer-programs/pni-summer-internship-program

Each student is placed in a world-class research laboratory – headed by a faculty member – and carries out an original research project. Students are thoughtfully matched to labs based on their research interests as indicated in their application form, recommendation letters, and personal statement. Careful consideration is taken of each applicant’s overall experience, academic background, and objectives. Lab assignments are included in acceptance letters. 

11/20 – Summer Undergraduate Research Program in Neural Computation – PA

Undergraduates interested in receiving research training in computational neuroscience are encouraged to apply to an NIH-sponsored summer program at the Neuroscience Institute in Pittsburgh, PA. The environment at Carnegie Mellon University has much to offer to students interested in computational approaches….

https://www.cmu.edu/ni/academics/undergrad/summer-research-program-neural-computation

11/20 – Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program (LSSURP) – MN

https://med.umn.edu/gps/undergraduate-research/life-sciences-summer

Many research areas.

Application open! Closing date: Feb. 2026

11/20 – Irvine Summer Institute in Neuroscience – CA

Summer 2026 Applications are NOW OPEN!

Deadline for applications and letter of recommendation: January 10, 2026

Join us for an information session:
Monday, December 1, 12-1 pm PST

11/13 – AMGEN Scholars program

https://amgenscholars.com/us-program

Undergraduate summer program in science and biotechnology, hosted at 14 institutions in the US. Each one has its own application process.

11/13 – JAX Summer Student Program in Genetics – ME/CT

https://www.jax.org/education-and-learning/high-school-students-and-undergraduates/learn-earn-and-explore

The JAX Summer Student Program (SSP) is designed for intellectually curious undergraduate and graduating high school seniors eager to explore how genetics and genomics shape biological systems — and who want to grow as independent researchers in a collaborative environment. The program emphasizes laboratory discovery, scientific communication and personal growth in a team environment.

11/13 – MIT Summer Research Program in Biology – MA
11/13 – Summer Neuroscience Internship Program (SNIP) – FL

https://neuroscience.ufl.edu/training/https-neuroscience-ufl-edu-training-summer-neuroscience-internship-program/summer-neuroscience-internship-program/

SNIP is a full time 10-week paid research internship hosted by the UF Department of Neuroscience, and UF’s Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute (MBI). The dates for summer 2026 will be May 26 – July 31 (tentative).

11/13 – CLIMB UP for Summer Research – NY

Buffalo, NY: CLIMB UP (Undergraduate Program) for Summer Research is an interdisciplinary, nine-week-long summer research experience for undergraduates to conduct research in the biomedical, behavioral and health sciences. Additionally, CLIMB UP provides research mentoring and career and professional development tailored to the goals of each of our students in the program. Students explore graduate and career opportunities, discuss and present their research, network and participate in social activities.

https://www.buffalo.edu/climb/climb-up.html

11/13 – Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute Summer Scholars Program – PA

https://www.research.chop.edu/crissp

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute Summer Scholars Program (CRISSP) is a 10-week internship designed to inspire undergraduate students to pursue careers in pediatric research and academic medicine through training in theoretical knowledge and research as well as critical exposure to pediatric-focused career trajectories under the direct mentorship of CHOP faculty.

11/13 – Summer Undergraduate Research Program in Neuroscience (NeuroSURP) – NJ

https://rwjms.rutgers.edu/department/neuroscience-cell-biology/about#panel-7=&tab=panel-7

The primary purpose of our program, established in 1996, is to provide 12 students with a closely-mentored, hands-on graduate level basic research experience in an active neuroscience laboratory on the Piscatway or New Brunswick campus of Rutgers University.

A second important goal, and one that distinguishes us from most other SURPs, is to provide students with career development and educational activities. These occur throughout the program, and are intended to increase knowledge and interest in pursuing careers in research.

Our program is primarily funded by an R25 Award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)/NINDS.  We will be proudly entering our 15th year of support from the NIH in 2026.

Information for 2026:

  • Application link will open on January 2nd, 2026 and close on February 16th, 2026.
  • The 2026 session will take place between May 26th, 2026 and July 31st, 2026.
11/13 – Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Undergrad Research Program – NY

https://www.cshl.edu/education/undergraduate-research-program/

The Undergraduate Research Program (URP) at CSHL provides an opportunity for undergraduate scientists from around the world to conduct first-rate research. Students learn the scientific process, technical methods and theoretical principles, and communicate their discoveries to other scientists. Approximately 20 students come to CSHL each summer for the program, living and working in the exciting Laboratory environment. URP participants work on an ongoing research project in one of CSHL’s expert labs. Research at CSHL focuses on:

  • Molecular Biology & Cancer
  • Genetics & Genomics
  • Neuroscience
  • Plant Biology
  • Quantitative Biology
11/13 – WashU ENDURE Neuroscience Research Program – WA

We train undergraduates from all backgrounds who seek to become brain scientists. We prepare the next generation of neuroscientists by combining outstanding research training, a rigorous curriculum and an empowering support system so participants thrive on their path to graduate school and beyond.

http://endure.wustl.edu

11/13 – Leadership Alliance Summer Research Program

Leadership Alliance, long-established summer research program based at Brown University and with many partner institutions:  https://www.theleadershipalliance.org

11/13 – Frankel Cardiovascular Center Summer Undergrad Research Fellowship – MI

University of Michigan Frankel Cardiovascular Center (FCVC): Ten week Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) focused on cardiovascular research: https://sites.google.com/site/cvcsummerfellowship/home 

11/13 – Summer of Translational Aging Research for Undergraduates (STAR U) – NY

The Summer of Translational Aging Research for Undergraduates (STAR U) Program is a 2-month fully-funded research training program designed to encourage students from diverse and underrepresented communities to pursue further studies and careers in aging and neuroscience-related research. 

https://www.neurology.columbia.edu/education/additional-educational-programs/summer-translational-aging-research-undergraduates-star-u

  • Final Deadline: January 10, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.
  • ​​​Notification if selected for phone interview: February/March 2025
  • Program Starts: June 9, 2025
  • Program Ends: August 8, 2025
11/13 – REU Saving Endangered Species and Habitats – MD

The Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation (SMSC) is seeking to fill 10 paid REU positions for Summer 2026 at our NSF-funded REU site “Saving Endangered Species and Habitats: Next-generation Education, Research, and Training for Conservation Biologists.” This 10-week REU, held from June 1 to August 7, 2026, will give undergraduate students an opportunity to conduct hands-on, full-time conservation research and gain career-ready skills to improve knowledge of and best management practices for threatened species with the goal of helping to alleviate the global extinction crisis. Students will work with mentors to develop an original inquiry-based research project within one of the following three focal areas: 1) assessing and monitoring species in the wild, 2) understanding species integrity and resilience to anthropogenic threats, and 3) improving captive management of threatened species. 

This REU takes advantage of the resources offered by the SMSC, located at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI), which provide ample opportunity to learn and conduct research onsite, including lab, field, and/or computational research. Students will be trained in the responsible and ethical conduct of research, and how to effectively promote their findings using various online/social media platforms. Project mentors are conducting impactful, recognized research and all have experience in providing mentorship and professional development experiences for undergraduates. REU students will also participate in a series of career and skills-building seminars with faculty and attend colloquium talks given by experts in conservation, while interacting with peers in team-building activities and social excursions. Students will also enhance their communication skills by presenting their research findings at a final symposium as well as a poster preview for the local community. Successful applicants will be paired with a research mentor based on their interest in this REU’s thematic areas and the best fit of the REU experience for the student’s academic and/or professional or career goals.

As part of the application process, students will need to identify available projects they are interested in working on. A list of available projects and associated mentors can be found on our website at: https://smconservation.gmu.edu/nsf-reu/  

This is a fully funded, 10-week paid research experience. Candidates must be available and in residence for the entire 10-week period. All REU participants will receive a $7,000 stipend, up to $500 in travel support to/from the REU site, plus room and board at the residence and dining facilities of the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation (SMSC), located at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) in Front Royal, Virginia. Upon successful completion of the program, students can receive up to $200 in conference participation support.  

Who should apply? Undergraduate students who are very excited about a career in conservation, or interested in related disciplines, such as biology, ecology, genetics, physiology, animal behavior, endocrinology, anthropology, and environmental sciences, are encouraged to apply. 

NSF-REU eligibility:  To be eligible for this REU program, you must be (1) at least 18 years old, (2) enrolled in an undergraduate degree program (part-time or full-time) leading to a bachelor’s or associate degree, (3) a US citizen, US national, or permanent resident.

When is the deadline to apply? The deadline to apply is January 30, 2026. 

Start preparing your application materials early! This is a competitive program and only 10 students will be selected. Through the online application system (NSF-ETAP), students will need to submit:  

  • Current resume
  • Unofficial transcript(s) for all college/university-level coursework
  • One letter of recommendation from a professor or someone from a professional capacity that can judge your ability to succeed in a research program
  • An essay/narrative that describes your academic and professional interests related to the discipline of conservation and what motivated you to pursue them, as well as your future goals and ambitions and how this REU experience would help you achieve those goals 

Apply by following this link to the NSF application portal: https://etap.nsf.gov/. Create an account and enter SMSC in the search bar, or go directly to our program page: https://etap.nsf.gov/award/7921/opportunity/11407

If you have specific questions, please contact the REU Faculty Program Director, Dr. Anneke DeLuycker at adeluyck@gmu.edu

11/6 – Plant Disease Ecology REU – FL

The Flory Lab (www.florylab.com) at the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, FL is seeking an undergraduate for a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) position for summer 2026. This position is part of a larger research project funded by the NIFA/NSF/NIH Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Disease program aimed at understanding the mechanisms of pathogen spillover across ecosystem boundaries mediated by an invasive grass. With the help of mentors, the REU student will develop an independent project, acquiring skills in question formulation, experimental design and execution, data analysis, and science communication. Experiments for this project may involve inoculating invasive, native, and/or crop plants with a fungal pathogen to test possible causal relationships observed in the field. The REU student will work closely with Jason Sckrabulis, a postdoc in the Flory lab, and Luke Flory, one of the project principal investigators, and will interact with other UF researchers involved in the project. Previous REU projects in the lab were very successful, leading to publication (REU participant bolded): 

  • Benitez L., A.E. Kendig, A. Adhikari, K. Clay, P.F. Harmon, R. Holt, E. Goss, and S.L. Flory. 2022. Invasive grass litter suppresses a native grass species and promotes disease. Ecospherehttps://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.3907 
  • Kendig A.E., V.J. Svahnström, A. Adhikari, P.F. Harmon, and S.L. Flory. 2021. Emerging fungal pathogen of an invasive grass: Implications for competition with native plant species. PloS Onehttps://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0237894 

Applicants must be enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program with an anticipated graduation date after September 2026 and must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (including possessions/territories). The ideal candidate will be interested in pursuing a graduate degree or career in ecology, evolution, environmental science, or biology following graduation. Previous experience in plant disease ecology is not required. 

The REU position is 10 weeks in duration during summer 2026 with a flexible start date and a total stipend of $5100. Transportation and housing are not included. 

To apply, send the following to Jason Sckrabulis at jason.sckrabulis@gmail.com (if possible combined as a single Word or PDF file): 

  1. A brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience, interest in the position, and career goals (maximum one page, single spaced) 
  1. A resume or CV 
  1. Undergraduate transcript (official or unofficial) 
  1. Contact information for two references (faculty members are preferred) 

Please email Jason with any questions. Review of applications will begin immediately, with a final submission date of January 15, 2026, with an offer being made by February 15, 2026. 

11/5 – Fred Hutch Biomedical Undergraduate Research Program – WA

The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (Fred Hutch) hosts a summer internship that is designed to provide biomedical research experience and mentorship for undergraduate students of rising senior status: Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP). Here is an informational flyer that offers an overview of the program and a brief snapshot of important dates below, including how to apply.

The SURP is an intensive, 9-week internship designed to provide research experience and mentorship for rising-senior undergraduate students who are interested in biomedical research. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, students will:

  • Complete an independent research project;
  • Attend weekly research seminars;
  • Participate in professional development workshops designed to facilitate the preparation of competitive applications for graduate/medical school; and
  • Present their findings at a competitive poster session.

The program will run from Monday, June 22 – Friday, August 21, 2026. An online application for the 2026 SURP is now available on the SURP website.

The application deadline is midnight Pacific Standard Time (PST) on Friday, January 9, 2026. Letters of recommendation for up to two references are due by midnight Pacific Standard Time (PST) on Friday, January 16, 2026

11/5 – Cancer-focused Summer Undergraduate Research Program – OH

All info here for this program through Case Western Reserve University: https://case.edu/cancer/training-education/cansur

Application deadline: January 16, 2026

11/5 – Agricultural Technician Internship – WA

Position: Agricultural Technician 
Location: Zillah, WA, with travel to Oregon and Idaho 

Position Length: June 2nd to October 2nd, 2026 

Job Description: Yakima Chief Ranches is seeking motivated students or recent graduates interested in agriculture, plant science, and field research to join our team as Agricultural Technicians. This internship offers hands-on experience in hop production, pest and disease scouting, and agronomic research, providing exposure to the hop industry from breeding to brewing. 

What You’ll Do (other duties may be assigned):

  • Field Scouting and Pest Management: Travel throughout hop-growing regions in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho to scout fields for pests and diseases. Work independently to identify, assess, and report findings that support grower decision-making. 
  • Agronomic Research Support: Assist with data collection for field trials focused on hop plant health and sustainable growing practices. Design and contribute to an independent research project of your choosing. 
  • Industry Learning: Participate in enrichment sessions covering hop breeding, procurement, brewing, and sensory analysis to gain a broad understanding of the hop supply chain. 
  • Professional Networking: Build connections with professionals in agronomy, brewing, and research to prepare for a career in agriculture, fermentation or plant science.

Qualifications:

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Training:

  • At least junior or senior standing 
  • Must be 21 years or older, as brewing and sensory activities are included.
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record. 
  • Strong communication and organizational skills. 
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently in outdoor conditions. 
  • Ability to relocate to Zillah, WA or surrounding areas such as Yakima, WA, for the duration of the internship. 
  • Position requires an executed confidentiality agreement. 

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift 50lbs 
  • Walk several miles per day in the field in hot and cold conditions

Desired Qualifications:

  • Pursuing or recently completed a B.S. in an agriculture, fermentation science, or agriculture-related field (e.g., plant biology, entomology, or ecology). 
  • Experience with hops and or brewing/fermentation science is a plus, but not necessary. 
  • Enthusiasm for learning about hop production and applied agronomic research. 
  • Bilingual language skills (speak, read, write) in Spanish and English highly desired. 

Schedule:

  • Approximately 40 hours per week, with limited weekend work in September. 
  • Work is primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions. 
  • Up to 20% travel across Oregon and Idaho growing regions. 

Apply here: https://yakimachiefranches.com/

We review applications on a rolling-basis. If you have any questions about the internship, please contact Sabrina Heitmann at sabrina@yakimachiefranches.com.

About Yakima Chief Ranches, LLC – Originally formed in the late 1980’s, Yakima Chief Ranches is a crop research company specializing in the development and management of novel hop varieties for the global brewing industry. YCR is a partner in Hop Breeding Company, LLC (HBC). YCR’s purpose is to create, build, and protect value for all, through development of first class hop varieties, a relentless pursuit of quality, and building meaningful relationships. We envision a new normal in the hop trade where mutual benefit between stakeholders is the key driver of success. A truly sustainable industry.

11/5 – Field Ecology programs at Notre Dame Environmental Research Center (UNDERC) – WI/MI

Applications are now being accepted for the UNDERC Summer 2026 Field Biology programs. UNDERC provides opportunities to promote understanding of field biology and how field research is conducted through 10 weeks in the Northwoods of Wisconsin and Michigan. We offer two distinct experiences, Track1 for students wanting to gain initial experience in field biology where they can gain an introduction to the concepts and methodology while conducting a collaborative research project with other students in the program, and Track2, designed for students with some research experience who wish to conduct their own independent field study at the UNDERC property with the help of a graduate student or faculty mentor. Each student receives housing, travel between the Notre Dame campus and UNDERC, and a $6000 stipend.

UNDERC-Track 1: This opportunity is offered to individuals at any stage of their undergraduate education that have an interest in gaining training and research experience in field biology. Students receive a structured introduction to field biology through a mixture of classroom and field training at the UNDERC facility. Classroom training includes visits to the George W. Brown, Jr. Ojibwe Museum and Cultural Center and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission.  Classwork will also promote understanding of Native American attitudes towards the environment for non-Native American students. The summer is broken up into four learning modules including – vertebrate ecology, aquatic ecology, forest ecology, and a module based on data collected by the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). This module is conducted in conjunction with staff scientists at NEON. Important research skills, including keeping a field notebook, basic statistical analysis and experimental design, and science communication will also be taught. This training will be leveraged by the class to conduct a summer-long collaborative research project.   

UNDERC-Track 2: Our Track 2 opportunity is designed for undergraduates with at least one summer or semester of research experience at UNDERC (including Track 1) or elsewhere. An UNDERC-affiliated scientist will mentor each student on the development of a research proposal, implementation of the project, analyses of the data collected and the writing up and presentation of the project at the end of the summer. Research topics are determined by the student with their mentor, but include the following broad areas: Aquatic Ecology, Fish Population Ecology and Behavior, Tree Functional Ecology, Small Mammal Ecology, Tree Population and Community Ecology, or Tree Ecophysiology. 

The UNDERC facility is owned by Notre Dame and contains 8000 acres of pristine lakes, streams, wetlands, and forests with abundant wildlife. The natural setting and modern facilities provide an unparalleled opportunity for gaining experience in field biology. UNDERC is also the core site in the Great Lakes Region for the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). UNDERC provides tuition (3 credits for Track1), housing, and transportation between the main Notre Dame campus in South Bend, Indiana and the UNDERC site. Acceptance for both programs is based on a statement of purpose and past academic performance; Track2 applicants will also conduct an informal interview with potential mentors to determine shared research interests. Preference is given to students pursuing a career in ecology or environmental science. Applicants are required to be present for the duration of course (27 May through 8 August).

Further information can be obtained at the UNDERC website (underc.nd.edu), or from UNDERC Assistant Director Dr. Michael Cramer (mcramer@nd.edu).

Applications are available online. (link: https://underc.nd.edu/education/undergraduate-field-courses/)

Application deadline is 5 December 2025.

Native American and Puerto Rican students are especially encouraged to apply.

Year-round Opportunities

Conservation Corps – Various US

Conservation Corps work all over the U.S. on projects ranging in focus from Ecology to History: Conservation Legacy and Corps Network.  You can serve on a crew with other young(er) folks, or be placed individually.  Most positions will come with an AmeriCorps stipend, education award, and other benefits.

Open Positions

Catalog of Biomedical Research Internships
The Student Conservation Association – various US

Paid internships all around the country, ranging from 3 to 12 months, most with housing provided and an AmeriCorps Education award upon completion.

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces across the country. After working with the SCA, program participants emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.

US Government Agency Internships

For students and faculty in search of internships with government laboratories:

Pharmacology Internship – PA/NC/MA/CT

Summer and school-year internships with GSK, a science-led global healthcare and pharmaceutical company:

Skip to toolbar