Institutional Partnerships

Bridge into Internships

Argonne offers a pre-internship program for local Illinois high school seniors during the summer between high school graduation and college.

The Bridge Into Internships program helps recent high school graduates prepare for college-level STEM internships by building foundational professional and technical skills through exposure to real-world STEM research at a national lab. Designed for students pursuing STEM degrees at community or 4-year colleges, this experience introduces them to internship pathways at Argonne National Laboratory. Mentored by Argonne scientists, participants will explore real-world challenges and learn about STEM careers by engaging in authentic scientific research experiences.

Bridge into Internships Program

The application window for Summer 2026 is closed.

Program Details

The Argonne Bridge Into Internship Summer Program provides the opportunity for students to grow STEM research & professional development skills and knowledge. This experience will aid students in developing a competitive application for an undergraduate Department of Energy internship. In this pre-internship, students will:

  • Complete a research project under the supervision of an Argonne scientist/engineer mentor
     
  • Learn important STEM skills (reading technical articles, planning and carrying out investigations, data analysis)
     
  • Practice professional skills (time management, collaboration, communication, self-advocacy, network building) 
     
  • Participate in career development seminars and laboratory tours

This program prepares students to be internship-ready through structured skill development, mentoring, reflection, and accountability. It helps identify and strengthen gaps in essential skills, making participants more prepared and competitive for future internships while building a strong foundation in internship readiness.

  • Program Dates: Monday, June 15 - July 31, 2026
    • On-site at Argonne in Lemont, IL Monday-Thursday, Friday will be a virtual day

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Applicants must be 18 years of age by June 15, 2026
  • Interested in a career in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
  • U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
  • Be a Class of 2026 graduate from a Chicagoland high school
  • Enrolled to attend a two year or four year college full-time in Fall 2026.
  • Submit two references from science/math teachers.
  • Must commit to entire length of the program (7 weeks)

As part of this application, we require two references from a teacher or another adult (such as an employer or an educator from an extracurricular activity). Please provide their contact information in the application, and we will send them instructions for submitting their references directly.  Argonne STEM Education staff will review applications and select candidates for interviews. 

Financial Information

During the appointment period, participants receive a stipend. Stipends are considered taxable income by the IRS. The laboratory is required by law to report this income.

The Application deadline is February 19, 2026.  All applicants will be contacted the week of February 22nd or sooner to learn about the next steps in the application process.

Please send any questions or comments to Bridgestaff@​anl.​gov.