News
2026 Summer Internship at Yerkes Observatory
We’re thrilled to announce the 2026 undergraduate summer internship at Yerkes Observatory! We encourage all eligible students to apply after reading the information and program FAQ below.
By participating in this internship, students will:
- work with on-site telescopes, including our 0.6-meter and 1-meter reflectors and 40″ Great Refractor, and historic glass plate collection
- gain valuable experience in astronomy research and instrumentation
- engage the general public with astronomy by supporting Yerkes programming and events
- receive science communication mentorship and present your work at the end of the program
Applications for the internship closed on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 5pm CT. Applicants should expect to hear back from us by early March 2026. If you have questions about your application or the application process, please email science-info@yerkesobservatory.org.
Program FAQ
Who can participate?
Current undergraduate students and recently graduated students that are not currently enrolled in a graduate program with a B.S. or B.A. in astronomy, physics, computer science or other related STEM fields. Those that have graduated in May 2025 or later are eligible to apply.
This program is open to both domestic applicants and international applicants that are enrolled at an accredited institution in the United States. U.S. citizens enrolled at international institutions are also eligible to apply.
Students studying at community colleges and 2-year institutions are encouraged to apply.
When will the program take place?
9 weeks over Summer 2026 (June 8 —August 7)
Where will the program take place?
In person at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WI.
What is the program stipend?
Students will receive a $5,625 stipend for completing the program, as well as up to $500 for travel to and from the observatory.
Will I need to secure housing?
No. Yerkes Observatory will provide on-site housing with private bedrooms for each intern and a full, shared kitchen. Occasional meals will be provided but interns generally will be responsible for their own food.
What will participants do during the program?
Participants will engage in a mentored research experience, participate in cohort meetings, support public outreach programming and events at Yerkes, visit other institutions in the midwest supporting astronomy and science outreach, and present their work to the Yerkes community.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Please direct any questions you have about this program to science-info@yerkesobservatory.org.
How do I apply?
Applications closed on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 5 p.m. CT.
Please note that while the use of ChatGPT and other AI/LLM tools is not prohibited, you must disclose whether you used it in the application. If we suspect AI/LLM tools were used without disclosure, your application will not be considered.
When will I know if I’ve been accepted?
All applicants will be notified via email of their status by early March 2026.