High-Altitude Ballooning Intern
Summer 2026
- Deadline: February 20th, 2026 by 4:00 p.m.
Purpose:
High-altitude ballooning provides a low-cost, flexible, and eco-friendly way to conduct scientific research, test technology, and offer hands-on educational experiences in a “near-space” environment. This position will support a High-Altitude Ballooning Workshop scheduled for June 2026, designed to deliver practical training for students and faculty across Iowa. By expanding technical skills and capacity among ISGC affiliates, the program aims to increase accessibility and participation in these experiential learning opportunities. The role is ideal for an individual with a strong desire to learn and work with young adults. Candidates with experience in high-altitude ballooning, an amateur radio license, and technical skills in mechanical and electrical systems are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
- U.S. Citizenship Required
- Full-time undergraduate enrollment at DMACC, Drake, ISU, Loras, Morningside, UI, UNI or Simpson at the time of application*
- Graduation date no earlier than Spring of 2027
- Majoring in STEM or education disciplines
- Good academic standing (minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA)
Selection:
Internships are competitively awarded based on complete application information, including academic qualifications. Awardees must present a poster presentation at the ISGC Research Symposium in spring 2027 (date TBD). Awardees must agree to participate in a NASA longitudinal tracking process that surveys student progress and eventual employment outcomes to help assess the effectiveness of our program and STEM retention efforts. The intern will create a final report for the ISGC Office and Executive Committee at the end of the internship. A report template will be provided. Please note that ISGC will not provide housing accommodations for the 10-week internship.
To Apply:
- Complete the application – https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019bb3f895e5791e80d80e0db9862b7d
- As part of the application, you will be asked to upload your most recent unofficial transcript (unprotected and unsecured PDF)
The preliminary announcement date for awards is late March 2026, contingent upon the availability of NASA funding.
