Are you an undergraduate student who is ready to use your major in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) field or science policy to help make a difference in the world? Then the Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI) is for you!

Each year, students from around the country participate in SULI at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). In this comprehensive internship with PNNL, you’ll be mentored by a leading science expert who will guide you in a specific research area to gain maximum exposure to one of the many science and technology areas that underpin the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) diverse missions. This is an opportunity for you to enhance your professional network and develop your interests in a state-of-the-art research facility.

About SULI

SULI is a 10- to 16-week summer or semester-long internship program for college sophomores, juniors, or seniors majoring in STEM fields or science policy. Selected students perform research under the guidance of scientists or engineers on projects supporting DOE missions. See DOE’s SULI webpage for complete information regarding key dates, eligibility, and more.

Live the Gold Experience

An additional benefit of this internship is that you will be invited to participate in PNNL’s Gold Experience—an enhanced model and method for delivering an internship experience that embraces PNNL’s core values of collaboration, courage, integrity, and creativity. You’ll stay connected to PNNL, fellow interns, and your mentor via the following activities:

• Comprehensive onboarding, including new-hire meet and greets
• Tours of PNNL’s world-class facilities and interaction with PNNL leadership, scientists, and engineers
• Monthly seminars, workshops, and discussions with mentors
• Professional development and networking opportunities

As one of 17 national laboratories and one of the largest STEM employers in the Northwest, PNNL is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and furthering DOE’s mission in science education and diverse workforce development. Competitive internship opportunities like this are one way we support that goal. Many students return for multiple internships and successfully apply for full-time positions after their college graduation.

Key Dates and Information

There are typically three separate internship terms throughout the year. Eligible students must apply through DOE’s SULI application page. After applications are reviewed and approved by DOE, eligible students are referred to PNNL for interview and placement.

Compensation and Reimbursements

Salary, travel, and housing reimbursements are provided for eligible students. Additional information regarding reimbursement is available on the SULI benefits page.

“SULI gave me the opportunity to explore. I had no idea there were so many things one could research or study and make it a career, or have an education background in one area and be excelling in a completely different one. Being a SULI intern allowed me not only to learn from the best scientists in their field, but also to have mentors that chose to help guide me in my own career searching journey.” — Sonia Alcantar, PNNL chemist and former SULI intern