PhD Internship in Electricity Infrastructure & ...

Overview Join Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), a leading institution in scientific research, where our divisions focus on innovative solutions for significant energy and environmental challenges. Our Energy and Environment Directorate leads the way in modernizing the power grid, advancing renewable energy technologies, and solving complex issues in nuclear science and energy management. The Electricity Infrastructure and Buildings Division is at the forefront of transforming the energy system through research and innovation. We harness advanced data analytics and technical expertise in power and energy systems to influence markets, drive policy change, and enhance energy resilience. Responsibilities Are you eager to contribute to a sustainable energy future while gaining hands-on research experience? We are looking for master's students who are passionate about science and engineering to apply for a paid summer internship as part of our Energy and Environment Internship Program (EEIP). This is a fantastic opportunity to start your career while addressing some of the nation’s toughest challenges in energy efficiency and grid modernization. Interns will start on May 26, 2026 or June 16, 2026 and will be fully integrated into research teams. Interns will collaborate with experts in the field and gain insights into the progress of energy technologies, including the integration of renewable energy, storage, and electric vehicles. Interns will be assigned to research groups based on their interests and can explore opportunities in areas such as: Power Systems Engineering: Including grid architecture, communications, modeling, and energy security. Energy System Analytics and Control: Involving predictive analytics, system optimization, and advanced computing. Building System Sciences & Engineering: Focusing on energy modeling, electrical systems design, and building performance evaluation. Policy, Markets, and Deployment: Encompassing economic analysis, market design, and community energy transition planning. Positions are based in Richland, WA, Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR, with primary on-site work. Remote work will only be considered in exceptional cases. The Internship Experience As a PNNL intern, you will benefit from The Gold Experience, a program throughout the summer that includes professional development, networking opportunities, and exposure to PNNL’s diverse research mission. This internship aims to cultivate your skills as a researcher and provide a perspective on potential career paths in national laboratory science. Why Apply? Gain practical research experience within a prestigious national laboratory. Collaborate with leading scientists and engineers on innovative research projects. Build a professional network that supports your career advancement. If you are driven to apply your skills to meaningful real-world challenges and gain invaluable research experience, we encourage you to submit your application. How to Apply To ensure your application is considered, please follow these steps: Upload your Resume or CV in the designated section. Upload a Cover Letter separately that includes your statement of interest, relevant courses, and experiences that have prepared you for this career. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Currently enrolled in a PhD program at an accredited college. Minimum GPA of 3.0. Preferred Qualifications: Pursuing a STEM degree or a related field with interests in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, systems engineering, energy policy, economics, computer science, or data sciences. About PNNL At PNNL, we embrace an inclusive research environment focused on integrity, creativity, collaboration, impact, and courage. You will join a talented and diverse workforce dedicated to solving essential challenges for the U.S. Department of Energy. PNNL is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Created: 2026-03-05