Graduate Intern

Job Description

We have multiple openings for graduate students or students who have recently graduated with a bachelor’s or master’s degree to engage in practical research experience in quantum information science to further their educational goals. Opportunities include participation in projects lead by the LLNL scientists in this research area, including: Superconducting Qubits; Quantum Sensing; Device Fabrication; Quantum Control; and Noise Characterization. Mentor biographies and sketches of potential projects are listed at: https://pls.llnl.gov/careers/internships/livermore-center-quantum-science-summer-internship These positions are with the Livermore Center for Quantum Science (LCQS) in multiple divisions.

The Livermore Center for Quantum Science is a virtual department at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory that connects the researchers and resources that comprise LLNL’s vibrant quantum information science community with worldwide experts. The center's mission includes enhancing educational opportunities in quantum science for students. Details about LLNL’s Quantum Science research may be found at: https://quantum.llnl.gov

Summer positions are three-month appointments in the May-September timeframe with the possibility of extension. Applications are due on January 10, 2027.

When submitting your application, please list up to 2 mentors you would like to work with and why in the “notes to hiring team” section of the application.

Depending on your assignment, this position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

You will

• Work with scientists performing research in quantum computing and/or quantum sensing using experimental, theoretical and computational tools.
• Form long term connections with Livermore scientists who work in quantum information science.
• Conduct research in your assigned area by using various simulation, data analysis or experimental techniques under limited direction and supervision.
• Perform technical assignments of a basic degree of complexity and provide advanced technical support as directed by supervisor and/or mentor to advance your education.
• Present your work through presentations and/or poster sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).  See Additional Information section below for details.
• Must be a continuing student in good standing at an accredited institution pursuing a graduate degree or have recently graduated with a bachelor's or master's degree.
• Demonstrated academic achievement in physics, engineering or a related field.
• Experience applying basic physics principles to solve technical problems.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills.
• Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
• Experience working with personal computers for scientific tasks such as translated and reporting scientific data and familiarity with Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

Qualifications We Desire

• GPA of 3.0 or above.
• Experience with basic programming, such as python, C++, Julia or Labview.
• Previous experience working in an experimental laboratory environment or on a research project

Pay Range

$6,752 - $8,201 Monthly

This position is under a step structure.  Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year.

Additional Information

#LI-Hybrid

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Holiday Pay
• Sick leave accrual
• Individual 401(k) contributions
• Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values 

Security Clearance

None required.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory.  If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. 

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