Physics - Co-ops and Internships - Listings from Handshake

Employer: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Expires: 04/30/2026 About the OpportunityNASA Glenn Research Center is seeking highly motivated students to join the NASA Pathways Internship Program in support of active Moon-to-Mars exploration missions and advanced aeronautics research.This is a hands-on engineering internship embedded within NASA’s test facilities, propulsion laboratories, power systems programs, and flight systems development teams.For more information on what we are hiring for, please visit: https://www.nasa.gov/careers/2026-pathways-opportunities/

Employer: Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory Expires: 05/31/2026 Are you interested in contributing to efforts that help us learn about the planets and moons in our solar system, even if you’ve never worked on space systems before? The Dragonfly mission team is seeking a Student Guest Investigator to simulate seismic scattering processes within Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, using computer-based modeling and supercomputing tools. We’re seeking Master’s and PhD students in physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology, computer science, or engineering who are strong analytical thinkers and eager to apply quantitative skills to complex planetary science challenges. This is a two-year hybrid commitment and you must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the project. Some work may be performed remotely during the academic year; however, summer work is conducted in person. This is your opportunity to contribute to a mission to Titan while helping scientists better understand the structure and seismic activity of another world. Project OverviewLike Earth, Titan is expected to experience seismic activity. These seismic waves travel through the moon’s icy shell and contain valuable information about its interior structure. Dragonfly will carry a seismometer capable of detecting this activity. However, Titan’s icy crust is expected to strongly scatter seismic waves, making interpretation more challenging. This project focuses on using existing high-fidelity computer models to simulate how seismic waves scatter within Titan’s ice shell. Because Titan’s internal structure is not well constrained, you will evaluate multiple interior models and compare results to seismic data and simulations from Mars, the Moon, and Earth. As a Student Guest Investigator, You Will:Utilize modeling software developed at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)Incorporate seismic scattering processes into Titan interior modelsRun simulations on high-performance computing systemsEvaluate how structural variations affect seismic wave propagationCompare Titan simulations to Mars, Moon, and Earth modelsAnalyze and visualize simulation resultsDocument findings and technical progress for mentor review Location: NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Key DatesApplication Deadline: May 29, 2026Selections Announced: September 30, 2026 You Must Meet All of the Following Minimum Qualifications:U.S. Citizenship (required for access to facilities and networks)Currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD in physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering at a U.S. institution and must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the projectMinimum 3.0 GPACompletion of coursework in multivariable calculus (Calculus III / vector calculus)Completion of introductory coursework in mechanics, waves, or electromagnetismSome experience with coding (any programming language)Strong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work both independently and within a technical team Above and Beyond the Minimum Requirements:Experience with data visualization and graph plottingFamiliarity with basic statistical analysisExperience working with computational modeling or simulation tools Application RequirementsSubmit the following materials:1–2 page cover letter (per project applied to)Most recent transcripts (unofficial is fine)Curriculum Vitae (CV), including hardware and software project experienceFaculty Mentor RequirementApplicants must provide a name and contact information for their faculty advisor at their home institution along with a 2–3 sentence statement from that faculty advisor confirming that if the student is selected:They will provide a workspace, internet access, facilities, etc. at their home institution so that the student can work on their Dragonfly project and communicate with the Dragonfly team during their 2-year tenure as a Guest InvestigatorThey will remotely attend the Fall 2026 Guest Investigator Kickoff Meeting (mid–late October)They understand that this is a part-time, supplemental research project that does not replace their student’s M.S. or PhD research

Employer: HRL Laboratories, LLC Expires: 05/16/2026 Join Us for an Unforgettable Summer Internship Experience! Looking to grow your skills, build your network, and have a little fun along the way? Our Summer Internship Program offers the perfect mix of hands-on experience and community-building activities designed to support both your personal and professional development. Over the course of the summer, you’ll dive into meaningful work that will expand your knowledge and challenge you to think creatively. But it’s not all work—we believe in balance. You’ll also get the chance to: Connect with fellow interns and early-career professionals through engaging networking eventsUnwind with movie nights, beach days, and celebrate National Intern DayExplore our cutting-edge science during two half days of guided laboratory tours, where you’ll visit 8 of our top research facilities and see innovation in actionWhether you’re looking to kick-start your career or simply learn more about the exciting work we do, this is more than just an internship—it’s your first step into a vibrant, supportive, and forward-thinking community.HRL Laboratories pioneers the next frontiers of physical and information science. Delivering transformative technologies in automotive, aerospace and defense, HRL advances the critical missions of its customers to help them remove limitations and create competitive advantage. HRL then transitions the work back to customers – ready for real-world application. For more than 70 years, HRL’s rich portfolio of scientific discoveries and engineering innovations continues to build on each other — often in unexpected, profound and far-reaching ways. As a private company owned jointly by Boeing and GM, HRL prioritizes purpose over profit, significantly advancing the state of the art.HRL Laboratories advances critical structural and functional materials and semiconductor devices that enable precision navigation, quantum technologies and extreme-environment performance. With expertise from design through deployment, we deliver scalable, high-performance solutions that transform our customers’ missions. Our work leverages digital manufacturing and scalable microfabrication techniques to meet tomorrow’s toughest challenges.Essential Duties:•    Perform cutting edge R&D under the supervision of staff scientists for next generation quantum photonic/electronic devices. •    Design, model, setup, and test of free-space and/fiber optic experiments. •    Perform measurements, collect and summarize data, present and discuss data with other scientists. •    Must be able to work well in a dynamic team environment and possess excellent communication skills.Required Qualifications: •    Currently pursuing an MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline.•    Prior experience working with any free-space/fiber optics, electronics, computer-controlled experiments obtain through coursework, independent study, or other internships. •    Strong desire to learn and be trained in scientific laboratory techniques and experimental procedures. •    Excellent verbal and written communication skills and organization skills are required.•    Must be proficient in use of computers, engineering workstations, and complex electronic equipment. Preferred Qualifications:•    Coursework or equivalent experience in optics, lasers, quantum mechanics and similar. Programming in MATLAB or Python highly desired.•    Working knowledge of free space optics, fiber optics, and rf-test equipment (spectrum analyzers, power meters, oscilloscopes) is desired. Physical Requirements: Must be able to work safely in an optical testing laboratory.Special Requirements:•    US Person Status Required•    Must been enrolled in an educational program following the end of your intern assignmentCompensation and Benefits:•    Pay Range: $43 - $48 an hour •    The pay will be determined on your educational year. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires for the position. Your recruiter can share more about the specific range during the hiring process.•    Benefits: 80 hours of Sick timeAssignment Length:HRL Summer internship assignments typically span 8 to 12 weeks, with three available cohort start dates: May 26, June 1 and June 15. Stipend: For students who will be relocating and renting in the Malibu, CA area for the summer we offer a 1 time stipend to help with moving costs. Specific information on pay out and requirements to be discussed with your recruiter.  Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At HRL, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing. If you would like more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please go to Employees & Job Applicants | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity CommissionFor our privacy policy please visit: www.hrl.com/privacy

Employer: Woodwell Climate Research Center Expires: 04/17/2026 Woodwell Climate Research Center Summer Internships Program 2026 Mission:Woodwell Climate Research Center (Woodwell Climate) conducts science for solutions at the nexus of climate, people, and nature. We partner with leaders and communities for just meaningful impact to address the climate crisis.   Woodwell Climate is a rapidly growing, top-ranked, independent non-profit climate research institute whose mission is to advance science-based climate policies through scientific research and outreach. Our world-leading research helps individuals, organizations, corporations, communities, and nations understand the realities of climate change, recognize the impact on our planet, and embrace the urgent action needed to safeguard the future of life on Earth. Summary:Join the Center’ 2026 Summer Internship Program on the Risk team as a full-time Research Assistant Intern to build a flood model and assist communities in preparing for the impacts of climate change. A successful candidate must have a genuine interest in scientific machine learning and environmental resilience who can bridge the gap between theoretical physics and applied AI to solve complex climate challenges.  This opportunity provides mentoring, training, and group support. Responsibilities include, but not limited to: Conduct literature review on recent advances in flood modeling with respect to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solvers and Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINN)Design and build a flood model within a PINN framework to serve as a high-speed emulator for the 2D Shallow Water Equations used in flood modeling or by deploying a highly computationally efficient CFD solverValidate the flood model using historical events and scale the model for continent-wide simulationsCreate a documented GitHub repository, a validation report quantifying error metrics against ground truth, and visualizations comparing the emulator’s performance to standard hydraulic models Must have the following Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Strong proficiency in Python and hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks like PyTorch, TensorFlow or JAXSolid understanding of Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) and numerical methods used in fluid dynamicsAcademic background in Scientific Computing, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Numerical Analysis, and Deep Learning and Fluid Mechanics preferredExcellent communications skills (written, verbal and interpersonal)Ability to work independently as well as productively as part of a team Qualifications:Currently enrolled (or will graduate in Spring 2026) in an undergraduate or graduate program in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Physics or quantitative field Work Environment:The functions of this role are conducted indoors Application review will be ongoing Desired Start Date: June 8 2026 thru August 14, 2026 Hours of WorkThis role is paid on an hourly basis. Typically, full-time employees work 40 hours during a Monday through Friday workweek. Classification and Compensation: This is a full-time, temporary, non-exempt position, with an hourly salary (based on Massachusetts minimum wage or equivalent state where the employee is located). Internship will not exceed more than 90 days. Location: Falmouth, MA Onsite or Hybrid Application Instructions: To apply, please complete the application, attach your resume and cover letter addressing your experience and qualifications in relation to the responsibilities of this position in a single PDF to our career’s portal.  All resumes without cover letters will not be reviewed. Please visit Woodwell's website to learn more about Woodwell’s work.Located on a 10-acre campus near the village of Woods Hole, the Woodwell Climate Research Center (Woodwell) is a private, non-profit research center. Woodwell is a leading source of climate science that drives the urgent action needed to solve climate change. Woodwell has 100+ staff members and is excited to welcome new employees to this work. Woodwell is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, mental, or physical disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, familial status, veteran status, or genetic information. Woodwell is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for all individuals in employment practices, services, programs, and activities.

Employer: Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory Expires: 05/31/2026 Are you interested in contributing to efforts that help us learn about the planets and moons in our solar system, even if you’ve never worked on space systems before? The Dragonfly mission team is seeking a Student Guest Investigator to help design and develop a prototype machine that fabricates non-flight harnesses and test cables used during spacecraft integration and testing. We’re seeking Master’s and PhD students majoring in the physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering who are strong problem-solvers and eager to apply their skills to real-world challenges.This is a two-year hybrid commitment and you must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the project. Some work may be performed remotely during the academic year; however, summer work is conducted in person. This is your opportunity to contribute to a mission to Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, while building, testing, and developing systems that directly support spacecraft integration. Project OverviewDragonfly’s custom mission architecture requires custom-built ground support equipment (GSE), test hardware and software. This project focuses on developing a prototype harness-building machine capable of constructing simple, custom, non-flight cables used in testbeds and engineering units.You will work alongside integration and testing engineers, harness technicians, and testbed engineers to research, design, build, and test a functional prototype. As a Student Guest Investigator, you will:Learn current Dragonfly harness fabrication processesAnalyze end-to-end harness assembly and testing workflowsStudy GSE harness, testbed cable, and adapter cable designsInterpret harness drawings, work orders, connector types, and wiring configurationsDevelop mechanical, electrical, and software designs for a prototype machinePresent trade studies, cost estimates, and design concepts to a review boardGenerate parts lists and procure materialsAssemble and test the prototype independentlyDemonstrate automated harness fabrication and pin-to-pin continuity testing for specified cable configurationsDocument development progress, technical challenges, and time tracking for mentor review Location: The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)Key DatesApplication Deadline: May 29, 2026Selections Announced: September 30, 2026 You must meet all of the following minimum qualifications:U.S. Citizenship (required for access to facilities and networks)Currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD in physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering at a U.S. institution and must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the projectMinimum 3.0 GPADemonstrated ability to conduct independent research or developmentExperience in at least one of the following:Software developmentElectrical engineeringMechanical engineeringMechatronicsStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to work both independently and within a technical teamAbove and beyond the minimum requirements:Experience with hardware design and software testingBackground in electrical engineering, computer engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing, robotics, or mechatronicsExperience building or prototyping mechanical or automated systems Application RequirementsSubmit the following materials:1–2 page cover letter (per project applied to)Most recent transcripts (unofficial is fine)Curriculum Vitae (CV), including hardware and software project experienceFaculty Mentor RequirementApplicants must provide a name and contact information for their faculty advisor at their home institution along with a 2–3 sentence statement from that faculty advisor confirming that if the student is selected:They will provide a workspace, internet access, facilities, etc. at their home institution so that the student can work on their Dragonfly project and communicate with the Dragonfly team during their 2-year tenure as a Guest InvestigatorThey will remotely attend the Fall 2026 Guest Investigator Kickoff Meeting (mid–late October)They understand that this is a part-time, supplemental research project that does not replace their student’s M.S. or PhD research

Employer: National Student Leadership Conference - Leadership Expires: 04/06/2026 National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC)Duke University, University of California, Los AngelesThe NSLC seeks Teaching Assistants (TAs) for its Aerospace Program, a 9-day residential conference for high school students interested in aviation and space engineering. TAs play a critical role in guiding students through hands-on learning, leadership development, and residential life.The Role:Teaching Assistants mentor a small group of 12–16 students, support academic and leadership programming, and serve as residential advisors. TAs arrive 5 days prior to student arrival for mandatory training and work 9-day sessions with a 3-day break between sessions. Days are long and active, typically lasting from 9:00 AM–10:00 PM.Responsibilities:Lead small-group discussions and debriefsTeach academic and leadership sessionsSupport program logistics and administrative needsChaperone off-campus trips and evening activitiesLive in the residence hall with students and serve as a Resident AdvisorQualificationsCurrent college student with an interest or background in aerospaceDemonstrated leadership experience or trainingRelevant academic, volunteer, or work experience appropriate for teaching sessionsCompensation & Benefits$900 per session (paid at the end of each session)Room, board, and meals provided during sessions (eaten in the dining hall on campus)Transportation to and from the conference included

Employer: Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education - Department of Defense Expires: 05/04/2026 Reference CodeDEVCOM-CBC-2025-0006How to ApplyApplications MUST be submitted on Zintellect.comApplication Deadline12/31/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time ZoneDescriptionResearch Topic: Biologic Formulation and Bio-functional MaterialsThe U.S. Army is offering a post-graduate research fellowship at the Combat Capabilities Development Command – Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM-CBC).What will I be doing?Under the guidance of a mentor, you will participate alongside a community of scientists supporting our mission to conduct innovative research and development to address existing and future chemical and biological challenges.Bio-systems are capable of complex and dynamic, DNA-programmable functionalities including sensing specific molecules to produce a range of responses, as well as performing specific catalysis for biomanufacturing of valuable molecules. Imbuing materials with these bio-capabilities is an attractive prospect to develop products that can be programmed in the same manner to build multiple functions. Materials can also confer enhanced stability, improved delivery, and other advantages to bio-components, enabling bio-functionality in a wider variety of conditions. Within this fellowship, you will participate in research projects developing bio-functional materials and formulations to preserve living cells or active biomolecules during material processing at multiple scales. In addition, research will involve characterization of material properties such as morphology and composition as well as activity or viability of encapsulated bio-components.Why should I apply?This appointment offers training and travel opportunities to enhance your fellowship experience. Anticipated learning objectives include:Advancing research experience in bio-functional materials – build hands-on experience applying research and scientific communication skills to real-world challenges. Gain exposure to cutting-edge methodologies and technologies in bioengineering and materials science.Multidisciplinary collaboration – Engage with a community of scientists across the Department of Defense (DoD) and academic organizations. Participate in innovative projects that integrate chemistry, biology, and engineering.Scientific communication to maximize impact – Enhance skills for publishing impactful research findings and presenting scientific results to stakeholders.Professional development – prepare for leadership roles in research and development and build a competitive profile for future opportunities in academia, industry, or government research organizations.Where will I be located?Aberdeen Proving Ground [Edgewood Area]What is the anticipated start date?DEVCOM-CBC is ready to make appointments immediately. Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.What is the appointment length?Appointments are initially for one year with the option to extend the appointment for up to four additional years, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.What are the provisions?You will receive a stipend to be determined by DEVCOM-CBC. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, experience, and research facility location. Other provisions may include the following:Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)Relocation AllowanceTraining and Travel AllowanceAbout DEVCOM-CBCThe U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM-CBC) is the primary Department of Defense technical organization for non-medical chemical and biological defense. (DEVCOM-CBC) activities at the Edgewood portion of Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, provide an extraordinary capability against emerging biological and chemical threats by merging intelligence assessments with its world-renowned chemistry, biology, physiology and engineering expertise at every stage of the acquisition life cycle. We provide a unique blend of distinguished scientists and engineers for the research and development of innovative technological solutions to solve chemical and biological defense threats to our nation—both abroad and on the homeland.About ORISEThis program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.  Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.  For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense. QualificationsThe qualified candidate will have completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in the fields of biology, biochemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, or related discipline. The degree must have been received within 5 years of the appointment start date; or if currently pursing, the degree must be anticipated to be completed by the appointment start date.Qualified applicants should have at least 2 years of laboratory experience.Highly competitive applicants will have 3 to 5 years of laboratory experience.Candidates must pass a background check in order to access U.S. Army facilities.Application RequirementsA complete application consists of:Zintellect ProfileEducational and Employment HistoryEssay Questions (goals, experiences, and skills relevant to the opportunity)Resume (PDF)Transcripts/Academic Records - Please upload a copy of a transcript for your current or most recent degree program that meets the disciplinary qualifications of the opportunity. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.One Recommendation. We encourage you to contact your recommender(s) as soon as you start your application to ensure they are able to complete the recommendation form and to let them know to expect a message from Zintellect. Recommenders will be asked to rate your scientific capabilities, personal characteristics, and describe how they know you. You can always log back in to your Zintellect account and check the status of your application.If you have questions, send an email to ARMY-RDECOM@orise.orau.gov. Please list the reference code of this opportunity [DEVCOM-CBC-2025-0006] in the subject line of the email. Please understand that ORISE does not review applications or select applicants; selections are made by the sponsoring agency identified on this opportunity. All application materials should be submitted via the “Apply” button at the bottom of this opportunity listing.  Please do not send application materials to the email address above.Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!Stipend$6,000.00 – $8,500.00 MonthlyPoint of ContactRichardEligibility RequirementsCitizenship: U.S. Citizen OnlyDegree: Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.Discipline(s):Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )Engineering (7 )Life Health and Medical Sciences (15 )Age: Must be 18 years of age