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 undergraduate students 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.
If you will be graduating with a BS prior to the start of your internship, please apply to our Physics Division Graduate Internship posting.
*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 areas under close 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 bachelor’s degree in a field of science, engineering, or an equivalent.
- Demonstrated academic achievement in Physics or related field.
- Ability to apply basic physics principles to solve technical problems.
- Demonstrated effective communication skills.
- Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
- Knowledge in Materials Science/Physics/Applied Mathematics/Applied Sciences.
- Familiarity with modern computer-based data analysis approaches, summarizing and presenting results.
- Ability to work in a team environment.
Pay Range
$23.26 - $31.62 Hourly
This position is under a step structure. Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year.
#LI-Hybrid
Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
- Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
- Holiday Pay
- Sick leave accrual
- Individual 401(k) contributions
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Security Clearance
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 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.
How to identify fake job advertisements
Please be aware of recruitment scams where people or entities are misusing the name of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under “Find Your Job” of our website. If you have encountered a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond.
To learn more about recruitment scams: <
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.
California Privacy Notice
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job 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 (
