Internships

We are offering 12-week paid research internships for undergraduate and graduate students interested in vector-borne diseases and their impact on environmental, animal, and human health.

Individuals awarded with the internship have the unique opportunity to work closely with mentors on vector-borne disease projects related to field research and control efforts, lab work, modeling, and data analysis.

Fellows will engage in hands-on VBD-related activities including vector surveillance, prevention, and control techniques, evaluation, and effective communication strategies.

Applications are closed for the 2024 Summer Internship.

Please check back for updates on future opportunities!

Why should you apply?

  • Gain hands-on experience in a research setting

  • Expand your knowledge of vectors and vector-borne diseases and apply it in practice

  • Obtain certificates following completion of coursework

  • Network with peers and professionals in various sectors

Frequently asked questions

  • Undergraduate, graduate, and emerging professionals interested in vector-borne diseases

    Background in entomology, ecology, epidemiology, biology, public health, veterinary science, environmental science, or related disciplines

    18 years or older

    Located in the U.S.

    Students enrolled in Minority Serving Institutions are encouraged to apply.

  • Use this link to fill out an application. You will be asked to submit a resume, statement of purpose, two references, and transcripts.

    Ensure that your documents are in PDF format. Please label you files with your first name initial, last name, and document type (e.g., FLast_Resume.pdf).

    Applications will be reviewed by the Leadership Team based on academic achievement, professional experience, and the alignment of your goals with the fellowship objectives.

  • Most interns will work for 12 weeks during the summer. The actual start and end dates of work can vary—starting in April or May can be ideal for work with ticks, while mosquito field work is usually concentrated later in the summer.  

    Some interns decide, with their mentor’s approval, to work for more or less than 12 weeks. * If you work additional or fewer weeks, your final stipend amount may be adjusted accordingly *

    Interns typically work 40 hours each week during the internship.

  • Upon completing your internship, you will:

    Complete courses on tick and mosquito biology,

    Complete a course on health equity,

    Complete a course on science communication,

    Develop science communication materials related to vectors,

    Complete an integrated vector management plan based on a fictional scenario,

    Maintain and complete a reflection journal about your experiences during the internship.

If you have any questions or require assistance during the application process, please contact Olivia Bognanni at opb5043@psu.edu or Erika Machtinger at etm10@psu.edu.

We look forward to receiving your application and wish you the best of luck in your pursuit of the VectorED Network Internship!