QuarkNet Summer Research Program

Program Description

QuarkNet offers summer research opportunities in science and technology for students who have demonstrated a strong interest in and aptitude for science and mathematics. Students work with scientists for seven weeks on projects related to the Fermilab research program.

Interns are encouraged to express preferences for areas of research in which they have a particular interest, although research projects vary yearly, based on the availability of projects ongoing at the lab. Projects will  be a subset of the research areas which constitute the mission of Fermilab, and are described in the lab webpage.”

Eligibility

  • High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors when applying. Juniors with experience programming computers or working with mechanical or electrical systems are encouraged to apply.
  • Illinois high school enrollment
  • U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status
  • Evidence of identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.
  • Work authorization if under 16 years of age. This refers to a work authorization for minors (sometimes called a “minor work permit”) that students under 16 must get through their school district. Your high school guidance counselors should have more information.
  • Proof of medical insurance
  • Applicants are asked to commit to attending the entire six-week internship period. Your availability may affect your acceptance into the program.  Although, we understand that school or family commitments can happen, missing any portion of the internship program is highly discouraged.”

Application Procedure

Before you apply, please have all your requirements ready. Once you submit the application you will no longer have access and will not be able to upload any missing requirements.
  • Online application. – Application Walkthrough Video Guide
  • Questionnaire
  • One letter of recommendation (Due date is application close date).
    • (Once you submit your application you will receive an email request with a reference link to provide reference contact information. Once you provide the info, we will email a link to your reference to upload the letter of recommendation. Please note the reference link will only be sent out during normal business hours, Monday through Friday. After hours applicants will receive their reference link when business resumes.)
  • Essay 

Essay GuidelineShort answer questions*: Please write short (< 200-word) responses to the following questions:

    • What do you hope to get out of this internship experience?
    • What “big questions” in science are you most excited about?
    • Describe a time you worked independently on a project.
    • How do you handle time management when you have multiple priorities?

Internship Details

  • Application Period: November 13, 2023 – January 31, 2024
  • Program Dates: June 17, 2024 – August 2, 2024
  • Acceptance date: TBD
  • Salary: $17.20 per hour
  • This position will be held on-site.
  • Transportation/Housing: Fermilab does not provide housing, meals, or any transportation.
  • We can provide a list of local hotels near Fermilab with discounted rates. Email us at Internships@fnal.gov to request a copy.

Deliverables

  • Entrance and exit surveys
  • Team research abstract
  • Oral presentation

Program Support

Summer Research for High School Students is generously supported by the College of DuPage.

Applicants to the program agree to have their contact information shared with the College of DuPage.

Key Dates

Application Period
November 13, 2023 – January 31, 2024

Program Dates
June 17, 2024 – August 2, 2024

Offer Date

TBD

Acceptance Date

TBD

Application is Closed

To be considered for the internship you must upload all Requirements under the Internship Documentation section before you submit the application.

Apply

Contact Information

Email