MARA at LLNL

After my MARA internship, I am much more equipped to commission and lead in a highly volatile world."

-Michelle McGee

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MARA INTERNSHIPS AT LLNL

The Military Academic Research Associates (MARA) program provides academy cadets, midshipmen, faculty, and newly commissioned officers awaiting their EAD the opportunity to intern at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

As a student enrolled in one of the U.S. military academies, you have the chance to explore leading-edge science as a paid intern at LLNL. Partner with one of our world-class researchers to help solve challenges in areas such as:

Weapons theory, design, engineering
Nonproliferation
Counterterrorism
Biological warfare

Energy security
Warfighter support
Intelligence analysis
Information science
Space exploration

WHERE NATIONAL SECURITY & SCIENCE COME TOGETHER

LLNL supports national security, defense, and science. As an applicant, you’ll identify project areas and LLNL researchers that interest you. Take a look at some of the work we’re doing!

Explore our research areas >

APPLY TODAY

MARA internship applications begin in October, and selections are made mid-October through February.

How to apply

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WILL I BE COMPENSATED?

MARA interns are paid through NNSA by their home academy and the DTRA Office at West Point. Your academy will cover your per diem, based on government allowances, as well as travel and local lodging. See your LLNL contact at your home academy for info.

WHAT WILL I DO?

As a MARA intern, you will participate in research in your assigned area, assist in conducting and documenting experiments, collect and analyze data, document and present results, and attend lectures and workshops.

HOW LONG IS THE INTERNSHIP?

MARA internships last for 4 to 6 weeks—only one-third the length of most LLNL internships.

WHAT ARE THE QUALIFCATIONS?

You must be enrolled at a U.S. military academy (West Point, Naval, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Merchant Maritime Academy) and have a GPA of at least 3.0 to apply.

WHAT IF I HAVE REQUIRED TRAINING?

Cadets and midshipmen with required training and only available for 3 weeks will require authorization from the Lab researcher.

WHERE WILL I LIVE?

Livermore lodging arrangements will be made at a local hotel in Livermore. Cadets and midshipman will be placed in double or single occupancy rooms determined by their respective academy and LLNL.