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About Internships
Part-time research internships in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
WISP Research Internship Program
The WISP Research Internship Program matches undergraduates with faculty mentors in paid, part-time research internships in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Internships last two terms (winter and spring), and interns present their work at the Karen E. Wetterhahn Science Symposium in May.
- First year and transfer students: eligible for internships in any STEM discipline, including Psychological & Brain Sciences.
- Sophomores: eligible for internships in chemistry, computer science, engineering, mathematics, and physics/astronomy (areas in which women are most under-represented).
The program provides students with early hands-on research experience and mentoring from a research scientist or faculty member. These early experiences enhance scientific education and provide students with the following:
- Research skills
- A better understanding of scientific inquiry and culture
- Increased awareness of science and/or engineering career possibilities
NOTE: Students cannot participate in another Dartmouth research program in the same year as a WISP internship (e.g. URAD, First-Year Research Experiences in Engineering).
What Makes a WISP Internship Different?
With a WISP internship, students and faculty interview and are matched by the WISP administrative team – as opposed to other UGAR programs, where students find a faculty member to work with and then apply for funding. This is a very important distinction; faculty may not "pre-select" students nor does WISP fund students who find their own research opportunities outside of our matching process. Interns and mentors are matched based on several factors, including mutual preference, priority for making matches in disciplines where women are underrepresented, and ensuring parity.
It might be that you aren't comfortable with the matching process and would prefer to come to an agreement with a specific faculty member – and that's fine! There is a multitude of ways to get involved in research during your time at Dartmouth.
Hours & Pay
These are paid internships. WISP interns work 6-10 hours per week and are paid $16.25/hour for up to 100 hours per term. This does count towards work-study requirements. Interns must complete the I-9 employment verification process prior to beginning their WISP internship.
First-year interns work are expected to work two terms (winter and spring), and sophomores may work one or two terms, depending on their D-plans.