The program offers apprenticeships for high school students who are U.S. citizens interested in science and engineering. The students are assigned to a participating laboratory to pursue scientific experiences with a scientist or engineer who serves as a mentor to the apprentice for eight continuous summer weeks. Applications are mailed to schools in the month of December. The complete application consists of 2 copies of the form, your transcript, teacher recommendation, and one-page essay about your interest, career goals, and accomplishments in the science. Each application will be matched with a project description submitted by a scientist at a participating laboratory and sent to that scientist.
Scientists interview candidates and make the final selection.
All students selected for a summer position are notified by May 1 of each year. All applicants must be U.S. citizens. In some laboratories, security clearance is required. Each student is responsible for transportation to and from the laboratory site. Starting date for employment varies.