Physics Division Graduate Internship - Summer 2027

LLNL; Livermore (CA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 92,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Best Places to Work recognition

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) invites graduate students and recent degree holders to join the Physics Division for Summer 2027 internships. Positions span applied physics, astrophysics, condensed matter physics, and related areas, with opportunities to work on experiments, theory, and modeling under LLNL scientists.

Summer term typically lasts about 3 months, May–July. The role may offer a hybrid schedule, with some days onsite and some days remote, and targets students with

Job description

Physics Division Graduate Internship - Summer 2027

• Intern
• Organization: Physical and Life Sciences
• Category: Students
• Job Code 2: 712.0 Intern Exempt
• Employee Referral Bonus: Not applicable
• Job Code 1: 705.2 Grad Student R&D/Technical
• Pre-Employment Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
• Pre-Placement Medical Exam: Not applicable
• Security Clearance: None/Position does not require US citizenship (assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation)
• Position Type: Student Intern

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

We have multiple openings for graduate students and students who have received a bachelor’s or master’s degree to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals. Opportunities include participation in projects lead by LLNL scientists in the research areas including: Applied Physics (Optical and X-Ray Imaging, Astrophysics and Planetary Science (laboratory-based and observational), Space Science Vehicles & Sensors) and Condensed Matter Physics (Theory, Modeling & Simulation, Experimental Static & Dynamic High Pressure Physics, Quantum Computing & Sensing). These positions are in the Physics Division of the Physical & Life Sciences Directorate.

Summer internships are typically 3 months in length and start between the months of May to July.

Depending on your assignment, this position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week

Applications will close COB January 31, 2027.

You will

• Work with scientists conducting research in experiments, theory or modeling simulation, and materials modelling.
• Conduct research in assigned area under limited direction and supervision.
• Perform scientific assignments at an appropriate level complexity and work collaboratively on scientific research and development projects.
• Analyze results and provide weekly updates.
• Present work through presentations and/or poster sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details.
• Must be a continuing student in good standing at an accredited institution pursuing a graduate degree or have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a field of science, engineering or an equivalent.
• Demonstrated academic achievement in Physics or related field.
• Experience applying basic physics principles to solve technical problems.
• Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
• Knowledge in Materials Science/Physics/Applied Mathematics/Applied Sciences.
• Knowledge of modern computer-based data analysis approaches, summarizing and presenting results.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience with modern high-performance computing systems.
• Experience with modern high-pressure experimental platforms and associated diagnostics.

Pay Range

$6,752 - $8,201 Monthly

This position is under a step structure. Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!

None required.However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the useand/or possession ofmobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area whereyou are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile devicein your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.

Ifyou useamedical device, whichpairs with a mobile device,you must still follow the rules concerningthe mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities requireseparate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.

CaliforniaPrivacy Notice

The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitlesjob applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here .

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