In collaboration with the Graduate College’s Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP), PRI offers hands-on summer internships that enable undergraduate students to explore careers in applied science. This opportunity is open to students at any U.S. undergraduate institution.

During the 8-week summer program, interns will be immersed in hands-on field and lab projects led by scientists from the Illinois Natural History Survey, Illinois State Geological Survey, Illinois State Water Survey, and Illinois Sustainable Technology Center. Interns also participate in professional and career development activities and learn about the pathway to graduate study.

Each summer intern receives:

• a $4,000 stipend
• funds to cover travel to and from Champaign-Urbana
• on-campus housing and meals, plus supplies for workshops and symposiums

There are opportunities in atmospheric science and climate; biology, ecology, and environmental science; geology; sustainable energy; and water supply and safety.

Applications for 2025 are closed. Please check back in November for 2026 information.