Each summer, the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) welcomes students from across the country to participate in hands-on research, technical training and professional development experiences that introduce them to plasma physics, fusion energy and the technologies that support them.
This year, the Lab hosted more than 30 interns and 15 Plasma Pathways Summer School students who contributed to projects advancing fusion science, materials research, engineering and Laboratory operations. Together, these initiatives deepen the Lab's ties to local high school students and higher education across the nation, building the next generation of emerging scientists, engineers, communicators and creators.
Summer Internship Programs
The Lab offers three internship and summer learning experiences organized by the Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists through the DOE's Office of Science: the Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship (SULI), Community College Internships (CCI) and Visiting Faculty Program (VFP). The Lab also hosts its own Operations Internship Program. Across these programs, students and early career professionals gain hands-on experience in research, technical training or internal operations as they contribute to projects that support PPPL's mission.
Each program has a specific focus:
SULI gives undergraduates the opportunity to conduct hands-on plasma physics and fusion energy research at PPPL.
CCI provides community college students with technical, Laboratory‑focused experience supporting fusion‑related research.
VFP supports faculty through collaborative research and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum development with national laboratory scientists. This summer, PPPL hosted a faculty member and student from Valdosta State University.
Operations internships introduce undergraduates to the essential internal functions that support the daily operations of a national laboratory.
Each summer, PPPL hosts interns through SULI, CCI and the Operations Internship Program, where students gain hands-on experience supporting the Laboratory's mission. (Photo credit: Michael Livingston / PPPL Communications Department)
Plasma Pathways Summer School
The Plasma Pathways Summer School introduces high school students to plasma physics, fusion energy and STEM careers while expanding access to advanced scientific learning for students who may not otherwise have these opportunities.
"I am so immensely proud of what these students achieve in their time here at PPPL," said Shannon Swilley Greco, senior program associate public engagement and workforce development. "They're proud of themselves. They want more! They want to engage with PPPL again, whether that's through the apprenticeship or SULI or another opportunity. We, as the science education team, achieved the best outcome possible - they feel like they belong here and that the research done at PPPL and national labs is within their reach."
The Plasma Pathways Summer School introduced high school students to plasma physics, fusion energy and STEM careers while expanding access to advanced scientific learning. (Photo courtesy of the science education team / PPPL)
Through the program, 15 students representing Achievers Early College Prep Public Charter School, Ewing High School, Foundation Academy Collegiate, Hamilton High School West, Lawrence High School and Steinert High School participated in hands-on activities, learned foundational plasma concepts and engaged directly with PPPL research. By exploring real laboratory environments and gaining exposure to careers in science, Plasma Pathways Summer School encourages students to apply for PPPL internships as they continue their academic journeys, helping build early connections and confidence.
