Nuclear Sciences PhD Internship

Overview

Join a prestigious research institution dedicated to tackling the most urgent energy and environmental challenges. Our Science & Technology directorates, including National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment, strive to provide groundbreaking solutions for a sustainable future.

The Energy and Environment Directorate focuses on supporting the Department of Energy (DOE) by addressing critical issues such as updating the power grid, harnessing renewable energy, and solving complex problems in nuclear science and environmental management.

At the Nuclear Sciences Division, our mission is to strengthen national and global security, promote energy independence, and innovate methods for nuclear waste remediation through advanced research techniques and technologies.

Responsibilities

We invite enthusiastic PhD students seeking hands-on experience and eager to contribute to sustainable energy solutions to apply for our engaging 10-week paid summer internship within the Nuclear Sciences Division. You will collaborate with leading scientists and engineers, starting from May 26, 2026, or June 16, 2026, as a part of the Summer 2026 cohort.

If your academic background or interests align with chemistry, materials science, nuclear engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or computer science, you will engage in impactful research projects that push the boundaries of energy and environmental sciences.

Research Focus Areas

Experimental and Computational Engineering: Participate in research involving multiphase fluid dynamics, heat transport processes, structural safety evaluations, nuclear radiation modeling, and solutions for nuclear material storage.

Irradiation Sciences: Conduct studies on irradiated materials characterization and examine the effects of radiation.

Nuclear Chemistry and Engineering: Work on radiochemical process engineering and explore cutting-edge separation technologies.

Radiological Materials: Develop innovative waste-form solutions, including vitrification and immobilization techniques.

Reactor Materials and Mechanical Design: Investigate stress corrosion cracking and advanced materials characterization, along with electro-mechanical hardware design.

The Internship Experience

Interns at PNNL are key members of research teams and participate in The Gold Experience, a program that promotes professional development, networking, and immersion in PNNL’s broad research mission. This internship offers an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your research skills and explore potential career paths in the national laboratory science field.

Why Apply?

Gain meaningful hands-on research experience at a renowned national laboratory.

Collaborate with distinguished scientists and engineers on cutting-edge research projects.

Build professional connections to enhance your future career prospects.

This position is based in Richland, WA, with a preference for on-site work; remote work may be accommodated in exceptional cases.

If you are driven to apply your skills to real-world challenges and gain invaluable research experience, we encourage you to submit your application.

HOW TO APPLY

Please upload the following two items:

Resume or CV: Submit in the designated 'Resume' section. Note that for multiple applications, the latest resume will apply to all submissions.

Cover Letter: Submit separately in the 'Additional Documents' section titled 'Nuclear Sciences EEIP Cover Letter.' This should include a statement of interest highlighting relevant coursework and experiences that have prepared you for this role.

Make sure both components are uploaded correctly; failure to do so will result in disqualification from consideration. Applications are accepted electronically until 4:00 p.m. (PST) on the closing date.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program at an accredited institution.

Required minimum GPA of 3.0.

Preferred Qualifications:

Interest in fields such as additive manufacturing, chemical engineering, chemistry, computational modeling, material science, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, software engineering, and systems engineering.

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a leading research facility dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce and upholding core values of integrity, creativity, collaboration, impact, and courage. Each year, numerous individuals join PNNL to collaborate with esteemed researchers on transformative scientific projects.

PNNL offers excellent benefits, including health insurance and flexible work schedules. Its Richland campus provides easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities and boasts a reasonable cost of living, just a short flight from Seattle or Portland.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Commitment to Excellence

PNNL ensures a respectful and equitable workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider applicants regardless of race, religion, color, gender, nationality, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request.

Drug-Free Workplace

PNNL maintains a drug-free environment compliant with federal laws prohibiting illegal substance possession and use.

Security and Eligibility Requirements

As a national laboratory, PNNL follows strict security protocols, including background checks for new employees. Candidates from certain countries may have additional requirements regarding their government affiliations.

Rockstar Rewards

PNNL provides a supportive work environment along with various incentive programs, including employee assistance initiatives. Salary ranges are based on relevant skills and experience, with compensation tailored to individual qualifications and current market trends.

Minimum Salary: USD $24.04/Hr.

Maximum Salary: USD $36.06/Hr.