Want to explore career options in basic science research? Looking to build skills for your STEM degree or future internship? Join Argonne National Laboratory for this summer’s Pathways in Physical Science Summer School!
Under the Reaching a New Energy Sciences Workforce (RENEW) initiative sponsored by the Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists (WDTS), this 4-week on-site experience will include an introduction to the national lab ecosystem, curriculum in a variety of basic science topics, professional development sessions, lab tours, and networking with Argonne researchers. Students will be introduced to chemistry, physics, and materials science through lectures, demonstrations, and laboratory exercises taught by researchers in our Physical Sciences & Engineering directorate. The theme of molecular gastronomy, which incorporates science in the preparation, transformation, and presentation of food, will be used to enhance students’ knowledge of physical sciences and the scientific method.
This program is specifically designed for freshmen and sophomore students attending community colleges or 4-year universities designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI). Students will receive holistic support during and after summer school, to bolster STEM identity and help connect to the next academic or professional step.
Pathways in Physical Science Summer School
Application Requirements
Summer School is aimed at current freshmen and sophomores attending community colleges or 4-year universities designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI). Participating students must be available to attend all four weeks (Monday – Friday) of summer school. On-site housing is available, or students must be able to provide their own transportation.
- Must be currently enrolled at an accredited institution with current standing of freshmen or sophomore at the time of application.
- Must attend a Minority Serving Institution (MSI). Check your institution’s status here.
- Must be 18 years or older at the time the appointment begins.
- Must possess a cumulative GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale.
- Should have an interest in research, basic science, physical science, or other STEM career path.
- Should be or intend to declare a STEM academic major.
- This is a learning experience, so no prior work or laboratory experience is required.
Financial Information
During the 4-week summer school, participants receive a stipend of $500 per week and on-site housing. Dormitory type lodging is available on-site at no direct cost to the student. Students choosing to live in the on-site student housing are required to have a valid major credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or American Express only) when checking in. This will be used for the security deposit. Your card will be charged for your stay. You will be reimbursed in your paycheck. Participants will also receive a meal per diem to help subsidize food costs.
Transportation
If choosing to live in on-site housing, travel by car will be reimbursed at the current government rate up to a maximum of $500.00 round-trip, not to exceed the cost of a round-trip coach airfare. No per diem or lodging costs will be reimbursed while en route. Travel by air will be purchased by the laboratory at the cost of the lowest commercial airfare.