Program Research, Innovation, and STEM Mentorship; PRISM - Summer

The four-week Fermilab Program for Research, Innovation, and STEM Mentorship (PRISM) is a dynamic and immersive summer school designed for high school seniors and recent graduates. It offers students a valuable opportunity to explore cutting‑edge STEM fields while engaging with Fermilab STEM professionals.

Participants delve into particle physics, quantum science, engineering design, and artificial intelligence through hands‑on activities, expert‑led lectures, and exclusive tours of Fermilab’s research facilities. Each week focuses on a different scientific theme, helping students gain a comprehensive understanding of diverse STEM careers.

Through mentorship, professional development, and access to a supportive network, students build their STEM identity, prepare for future academic endeavors, and engage with Fermilab’s mission to push the boundaries of science and technology.

• High School Senior for the 2026‑2027 school year or 2026 high school graduate
• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Proof of medical insurance
• Illinois high school enrollment

Before applying, ensure all requirements are ready. Once submitted, access to the application will no longer be available to upload any missing requirements.

• Online application – Application Walkthrough Video Guide
• Supplemental Questionnaire
• Provide a list of the STEM courses you have taken. There are no prerequisites required for the program; your responses will help with content planning (upload as a pdf under the Resume section).
• Letter of recommendation from a STEM teacher or STEM club advisor (Due date is application close date).

After submitting an application, the applicant will receive an email requesting contact information for individuals writing letters of recommendation. An email link will be sent to identified references to upload their letter of recommendation. Note that reference links are sent only to the individual writing the letter and only emailed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday.

• Program Dates:
  July 13, 2026 – August 7, 2026
• Application Dates:
  January 13, 2026 – March 1, 2026
• Offer Date:
  April 11, 2026
• Acceptance Date:
  April 22, 2026
• Salary: $500 weekly
• Housing:
  Fermilab does not provide housing for the PRISM program
• Transportation:
  Transportation assistance available
• Location:
  
  On‑site and off‑site work schedule

• Research Abstract
• Research Poster
• Final presentation
• Pre‑ and post‑program surveys

For inquiries or issues submitting requirements, please contact us at internships.

Fermilab is America’s premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe, and the South Pole.

Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive, and drug‑free work environment. As part of the hiring process, candidates must successfully complete a background check and drug screening for candidates 18 and over. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of these screenings.

Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.

Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL‑, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of  be found here: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.

We’ll be in touch! If your qualifications are in alignment with the position requirements, one of our recruiters will be reaching out to schedule a phone interview to learn more about your career interests and goals. In the meantime, we encourage you to check us out on Facebook, X, Instagram, Linked In, or our About Us page.