High School Student Research Intern - Civil Eng

Program Highlights:

• Hands-on Research: Conduct experiments on reinforced concrete specimens, learn corrosion detection methods, and use cutting-edge technology like 3D profilometry.
• Engagement and Learning: Start with a 1-day camp with the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) Corrosion ToolkitKit (cKit) and continue with practical, interactive demonstrations.
• Mentorship: Work closely with a PhD student advisor and receive personalized mentorship from USF faculty.
• Real-World Relevance: Understand how laboratory research applies to real-life infrastructure through advanced data analysis and forecasting tools.
• Cohort Collaboration: Partner with a peer to build teamwork and collaborative research skills.
• STEM Science Fair Participation: Showcase your research at the Hillsborough County 6-12 STEM Science Fair.
• Compensation: Earn $14/hr. with a commitment of at least 20 hours/week
• Program dates: Tentative schedule June 1st – July 30th, 2026

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience:

•  Must be actively enrolled in a participating high school.
•   Must meet the requirements of the internship program.

Eligibility Requirements:

• High school junior going into your senior year
• Must be a student in the Hillsborough County Public School system

How to Apply:

Submit the following documents:

• Current high school transcript
• Letter of recommendation from a science or math teacher

Personal statement detailing:

• Share any activities, projects, courses, clubs, or competitions you have participated in that relate to STEM.
• Explain what aspects of STEM excite you the most and why.
• What aspects of this program appeal to you the most?
• How do you think participating in this program will contribute to your academic or career goals?
• What skills, knowledge, or experiences do you hope to gain through this program?
• What are your career aspirations?

Application Deadline:

May 5th, 2025, 5PM EST

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF 

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu.

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: 

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law.  The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Cent