Do you want to be a part of new frontiers in army modernization through science and engineering research?

Applications are now being accepted for summer 2025.

As a participant in the ARL-RAP SSE, you will be part of high priority research efforts that are broadly supported by 11 research competencies. DEVCOM ARL has identified research topics available within several of the competency areas. Opportunities for general research under each competency are also available. Please review the list of exciting research topics being offered this year at the bottom of this page. Application deadline is January 12th, 2025.

The DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory (ARL) Research Associateship Program (RAP) Summer Student Experience (SSE) is an educational program that allows undergraduate through PhD students and recent bachelor’s and master's degree graduates to participate in a paid research experience at a Department of Defense laboratory over the summer break. Participants are paired with scientists and engineers at ARL who are helping to shape and execute the Army's program for meeting the challenge of developing technologies that will support Army forces in meeting future operational needs.

Location

Appointment location varies by opportunity.  Remote and/or Hybrid appointments may be considered on case-by-case basis.

  • ALC – Adelphi Laboratory Center, Maryland
  • APG – Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland
  • Graces Quarters, Maryland
  • ARL Central – Chicago, Illinois

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship may be required to be considered for specific SSE opportunities. Eligibility requirements for each opportunity will identify if non-U.S. citizens may apply. Non-U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to apply early to allow additional processing time for the ORAU Immigration Office and ARL security.

Qualifications/Eligibility Requirements

  • Degree: Candidates should be in an academic program leading to an undergraduate or graduate degree; or hold one of the following: Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree.
  • Minimum GPA: 2.5 at an accredited university or technical institute.
  • Age: Must be 18 years of age

Application Requirements

A complete application includes:

  1. Resume listing your relevant coursework and lab experience as well as all papers, presentations, or publications you may have authored or co-authored. Include any reprints or abstracts if they are available.
  2. Transcripts verifying current enrollment or receipt of degree in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited university or technical institute. Original student copies are acceptable.
  3. Statement of Interest describing your scientific research experience including lab experience and relevant academic coursework. State how does this experience intersects with your personal and professional goals.
  4. Three References formal reference forms are not required for the Summer Student Experience, but names and contact information for references must be provided for your application to be considered complete. During the review process, ARL Selecting Officials may contact references for further evaluation of your application.

Search the 2025 Projects

Posting Date Opportunity Title Opportunity Number Academic Levels Location

 

 

For questions about the Summer Student Experience Program, please email ARLFellowship@orau.org.