Fermilab Program for Research, Innovation, and STEM Mentorship (PRISM) - Summer 2026

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. This program offers students a valuable opportunity to explore cutting-edge STEM fields while engaging with Fermilab STEM professionals.
Participants delve into topics such as 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, enabling students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse opportunities available in 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.
 

Eligibility:

• 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

Application Procedure:

Before applying, all requirements 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 format 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 request to provide contact information for individuals writing letters of recommendation. An email link will be sent to identified references to upload their letter of recommendation. Note, reference links are sent only to the individual writing the letter of recommendation and only emailed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday.)

Internship Details:

• 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

Deliverables

• Research Abstract

• Research Poster

• Final presentation

• Pre- and post-program surveys

Should you have inquiries or experience issues submitting requirements, please contact us at internships@fnal.gov.

Why Fermilab: 
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.

Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening  

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.

Equal Opportunity Statement   

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.

REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus
Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https://get-connected.fnal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/REALID-Documents.pdf.