Description

The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) is a joint institution connecting the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) and the Harvard College Observatory (HCO). The CfA is a diverse astrophysical institution at which more than 800 staff and students are engaged in a broad program of research and education in astronomy, astrophysics, and Earth and space sciences. The CfA is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. Our research covers theoretical astrophysics, observational ground and space-based astronomy, engineering and technology development, and education. The research objectives of the CfA are carried out primarily with the support of government, Smithsonian Institution, and Harvard funds, with additional philanthropic support. At the CfA, the next generation of scientific leaders are being trained and mentored through a broad range of undergraduate and graduate student programs, postdoctoral positions and fellowships.

The CfA/SAO Summer Intern Program is a 10-week Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) where students take on an astrophysics research project with an SAO or Harvard scientist. Students are expected to work at the Center for Astrophysics (Cambridge, MA) for the full duration of the program. We house our interns in Harvard's graduate student dormitory facilities.

Undergraduates who are US citizens or green card holders at the time of the internship are eligible to apply.

Undergraduate students interested in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or related physical sciences are encouraged to apply. We provide a wide range of projects to our interns. You may find it useful to have taken at least an introductory Astronomy course, for scientific context. However, that is NOT required.

The 2026 summer session is expected to run for ten weeks, starting Sunday, May 31 (move-in day) and ending Sunday, August 9. These dates are subject to change without notice, depending on availability of housing.

The application is expected to close on February 10, 2026 at 11:59:00 pm, Eastern Standard Time.

Application Materials:

• personal statement, maximum 2 pages
• unofficial copy of transcript(s)
• 2 letters of recommendation
• CV

Some Instructions Regarding Letters of Recommendation:

• The letters of recommendation are essential elements of your application. Make sure that you ask your recommenders long enough in advance of the deadline that they have adequate time to write your letters and submit them.
• Double-check your recommenders' contact information for accuracy. They will be contacted using the email address you enter, exactly as you enter it.

Instructions Regarding Transcripts:

• Make sure that your name appears on each transcript.
• Black out your SSN, date of birth, and address.
• IMPORTANT: Save all transcripts to a single PDF file.

Instructions Regarding the Essay:

• The essay is to be a maximum of two pages in 12-point font saved as PDF.
• Your name should appear at the top of each page (in the margin is OK).

Important notes:

Our interns will receive a stipend. Housing will be provided free of charge for the duration of the internship.

Contact details:

intern@cfa.harvard.edu