The Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026 at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) is now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for students and recent graduates who are passionate about environmental science, climate action, and public engagement. This prestigious, fully funded internship program allows participants to gain hands-on research experience while working alongside leading scientists at one of the world’s most respected research institutions.
About the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)
The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is a research unit of the Smithsonian Institution, located in Edgewater, Maryland, along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. The 2,650-acre campus serves as a living laboratory for long-term ecological research, covering forests, wetlands, shorelines, farmland, and estuarine ecosystems.
SERC is internationally recognized for its work in understanding and addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, including climate change, biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and invasive species.
Overview of the Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026
The Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026 is a full-time, paid, onsite program designed to support students and early-career professionals in developing research, analytical, and communication skills. Interns will conduct independent projects aligned with their academic interests and career goals, under the close mentorship of experienced supervisors.
Internship placements span multiple disciplines and are tailored to provide meaningful, real-world experience rather than routine administrative work.
Internship Details at a Glance
Program: Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026
Institution: Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)
Location: Edgewater, Maryland, USA
Duration: Typically 10–16 weeks
Work Model: Onsite (limited virtual or hybrid options may be available)
Hours: Full-time
Stipend: $700 per week
Housing: Onsite dormitory housing available
Federal Position: No
A mutually agreeable start date will be arranged with selected candidates, with most internships beginning in summer 2026.
Available Internship Areas and Topics
Participants in the Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026 can expect to work across a wide range of scientific and public engagement fields, including:
- Research-Focused Internships
- Environmental Chemistry
- Marine and Estuarine Ecology
- Molecular Ecology
- Terrestrial Ecology
- Public Engagement and Communication Internships
- Environmental Education
- Participatory Science
- Science Writing (On-Site or Virtual option available)
Each intern is matched with a project that supports both SERC’s research priorities and the intern’s personal academic or professional development goals.
Who Should Apply?
The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center strongly encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The program is intentionally designed as a training and skill-building opportunity, making it ideal for:
- Undergraduate and graduate students
- Recent graduates
- Individuals at the early stages of their careers
Applicants do not need extensive prior research experience. Skills gained through coursework, volunteering, community projects, writing, education, or other non-traditional pathways are valued and recognized.
Why Choose the Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026?
Participating in the Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026 offers several unique benefits:
- Competitive weekly stipend
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Mentorship from leading scientists and educators
- Opportunity to live and work on a historic research campus
- Exposure to real-world environmental problem-solving
- Enhanced academic, research, and communication skills
This internship is particularly valuable for those pursuing careers in environmental science, public health, conservation, climate policy, education, or science communication.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to explore the full list of internship topics, eligibility criteria, FAQs, and application instructions via the SERC internship portal. These resources provide detailed guidance on preparing a strong application and selecting preferred project areas.
On how to apply, click HERE
On mobile devices, all relevant pages can be accessed through the menu button at the top of the site.
Important Contact Information
For questions related to the Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026, applicants may contact:
Heather Richardson
📧 RichardsonHF@si.edu
Applicants who require reasonable accommodation during the application process are encouraged to reach out via the same contact. Requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis in accordance with Smithsonian policies.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diverse educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds. Diversity is viewed as a strength that enhances research quality, collaboration, and public impact.
If you are seeking a paid, prestigious, and impactful summer internship in environmental science, the Smithsonian Summer Internship 2026 is an opportunity you should not miss. With strong mentorship, competitive funding, and exposure to globally relevant research, this program can be a transformative step toward your future career.
Deadline: Apply before February 15, 2026, and take your place in shaping the future of environmental research.
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