Defense Science and Technology Internship Graduate Student - Summer 2027

We're looking for a Defense Science and Technology Internship Graduate Student and for students who have received their bachelor’s or master’s degree, to engage in practical research experience to further their educational goals. You will conduct research in fields such as nuclear physics, radiation transport, hydrodynamics, astrophysics, plasma dynamics, numerical methods and computer science. Research projects combine theory with computation and are geared to further the students’ educational goals. You will report to the Strategic Deterrence Directorate.

This position offers a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You will have the flexibility to work from home 1 day per week. 

You will

• Develop and/or employ high performance scientific software to complete novel research tasks.
• Work with mentors under limited supervision on your assigned project.
• Present an oral presentation of each project at the end of the summer.
• Present your work at a poster session.
• Work on projects of greater complexity and given more freedom and responsibility to come up with fundamental solutions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Security Clearance is not required however due to federal requirements applicable to this position, US citizenship is required.
• Must be currently enrolled in an accredited university and actively pursuing a graduate degree or completed a Bachelor's or Master's degree with a focus in Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related field.
• Must have experience applying basic principles of physics, engineering and/or computer science to solve technical problems.
• Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Must be able to work effectively in a team environment.
• Math, Physics and Engineering majors should intend to complete a Ph.D.
• Students should have a track record of achievement in their field of study.

Qualifications We Desire

• Coding experience (e.g., Python, C++).
• GPA of 3.5 or above.

Application Deadline January 29, 2026

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. 

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Holiday Pay
• Sick leave accrual
• Individual 401(k) contributions
• Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values 

Security Clearance

None required. However, due to federal requirements applicable to this position, U.S. citizenship is required.

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 use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate 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.

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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

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. 

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