Pathways to Quantum Computing Internship Program

The Pathways to Quantum Computing Internship Program (PQCIP) is a 10-week research experience tailored to graduate students in the Quantum Science Center (QSC). Graduate students from the QSC partner and affiliate intuitions listed here are eligible to participate.

The program supports participants to perform research in the field of quantum computing and quantum computer science while in-residence at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

During the program, participants will engage in team-based research in the topical areas of hybrid algorithms, scientific applications, software development, computing architectures, and experimental validation. Participants will study under a designated ORNL mentor to ensure a well-rounded educational experience that fosters collaboration across QSC partner institutions.

In addition to hands-on research, participants will attend seminars, lectures, and workshops led by experts drawn from QSC partner institutions. All participants will attend the Quantum Computing crash courses designed to rapidly develop foundational and applied skills in quantum computing and related sciences.

Deadline to apply: November 4, 2026

Full Eligibility Details

  • Be 18 years of age or older by desired start date
  • Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale at the time of application (undergraduate and graduate combined OR graduate GPA alone)
  • Be currently enrolled as or accepted as a full-time graduate or PhD student in a degree-seeking program at a designed QSC partner institution. A list of QSC partner institutions is available on the QSC website, www.qscience.org/about.
  • Be in good academic standing
  • Be available to attend in-person at ORNL for the full 10-week course
  • No prior experience in quantum computing or research is required

Benefits

  • Paid stipend of $950 per week
  • Housing allowance of $250 per week
  • Eligible participants whose permanent address is more than 50 miles from ORNL may receive a travel reimbursement of up to $1,000 for round-trip transportation expenses to and from ORNL

 

Application Requirements

Phase 1: Candidate Pool Down-Selection

Please complete the form linked below by November 4, 2026. It will ask for basic academic information and a statement of interest. QSC will use the information provided in the form to down-select candidates for Phase 2.

Phase 2: ECO Application and Selection by QSC Mentor

If you are selected for Phase 2, you will be invited to apply to the ECO program.

The Phase 2 application will require:

  • One letter of recommendation from your advisor. While it is not required, if you have a research mentor who works with the Quantum Science Center, that would be a good choice to provide your recommendation. Please submit no more than one recommendation letter.
  • Current CV
  • Selection of topical areas of interest
  • Statement of interest

Being selected for Phase 2 does not guarantee an internship. QSC research mentors will review the Phase 2 candidate pool and select 5–7 students for internship positions.

Once you have reviewed the Eligibility and Application Requirements, start your application by clicking the button below:

START APPLICATION

Program Administration: The internship will be managed through the ECO program. Selected candidates must meet ECO qualifications and, once accepted into PQCIP, must complete an ECO application.