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Through Sanford Lab internships and the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program, undergraduate students to gain valuable experiences at a unique underground facility.

Photo by Matthew Kapust

Apply today for an undergraduate experience at Sanford Lab

America’s Underground Science Laboratory is taking applications for summer 2021 undergraduate programs

During your undergraduate career, summer experiences allow you to explore opportunities, build connections and envision where your degree might take you. In 2021, we invite you to spend your summer at Sanford Underground Research Facility (Sanford Lab).

Through Sanford Lab internships and the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program, undergraduate students gain valuable experiences at a unique underground facility. Applications for both programs are due in January 2021. Learn more about these programs below.

Not an undergraduate student? Share this opportunity with a student in your life!

Internships at Sanford Lab

What does it take to keep an America’s Underground Science Laboratory running? Communicators, scientists, engineers, educators, infrastructure technicians, safety professionals and more. Internships at Sanford Lab provide a unique learning environment in which undergraduate students work with experts from around the world to gain valuable real-world experience in multiple disciplines.

In 2021, we are excited to expand our internship program to include the Jack Headley STEM Internship. Created in memory of John "Jack" Headley, this internship is awarded to an undergraduate student seeking to work in STEM fields and gives priority to underrepresented groups in South Dakota. 

As the state and nationwide COVID-19 situation develops, Sanford Lab’s operations mode is subject to change. Interns will work closely with their supervisors to create a virtual and/or in-person work schedules that align with current Sanford Lab regulations.

Applications for internships are due Jan. 20, 2021. Learn more about Sanford Lab internships or apply now.  

Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program

The Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program is a two-week, fully supported summer program in the Black Hills that allows undergraduate students to explore the world of modern scientific research. In 2021, the program will run from July 3 to July 18. This all-expense-paid summer-study program is a hosted by Sanford Lab and Black Hills State University.

The Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program is open to South Dakota high school seniors and first-year undergraduates who have an interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Whether you are hoping to explore new fields or to narrow down your career path, this program provides real-world experiences that help as you pursue an undergraduate career in STEM.

“The program seeks to broaden student experiences with STEM fields. Students are immersed in different STEM fields and areas of research to broaden their perspective and create connections with people in those fields from whom they can learn,” said Deb Wolf, director of Education and Outreach at Sanford Lab.

Due to COVID-19, the 2020 Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program was postponed. Students who were selected for the 2020 program are invited to participate in the 2021 program. An additional eight students will be selected for the 2021 program. In 2021, the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program has been shortened from five to two weeks and will not include travel outside South Dakota.

Applications for the Davis-Bahcall Scholars Program are due Jan. 29, 2021. For a program summary and eligibility requirements or to apply, visit the South Dakota Department of Education’s website.