Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

The Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program at the California Academy of Sciences is a paid, multi-year internship for San Francisco high school students from communities underrepresented in STEM, including girls and students of color. New interns start in June as rising sophomores or juniors. During the school year, interns work after school and on Saturdays, and in summer they work on weekdays, at the Academy and nearby sites. Pay is above minimum wage. Interns do outdoor fieldwork, lead science activities for museum visitors, and attend trainings twice a month on science communication, STEM careers, financial literacy, and college applications. As they advance, interns join small research or environmental action projects led by Academy researchers or partners and can serve on a leadership council.

Applicants must be full-time 9th or 10th graders in a San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) school, with a GPA of at least 2.5 and a C or better in science and math. No prior experience is required, but applicants should show interest in learning, teaching, and doing science. Interns must be able to get a work permit (US citizens and others authorized to work in the US), commit to 2-3 years through high school graduation, and be able to travel to the Academy after school and on Saturdays during the school year and on weekdays in summer. The Academy says to check back in February 2027 for the next round.