NASA Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) 2026 : Paid Research Internship in the USA
NASA Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) 2026: Paid Research Internship in the USA.
NASA Space Life Sciences Training Program 2026 (SLSTP) is now open for applications for students seeking a paid summer research internship at NASA Ames Research Center in the United States.
The SLSTP is designed to train the next generation of scientists and engineers by providing practical exposure to cutting-edge research in biosciences and space biology.
Participants work closely with NASA scientists and engineers while developing professional and technical skills that prepare them for future careers in space research and innovation.
This program is an excellent opportunity for students who are passionate about biology, aerospace science, research, and the effects of spaceflight on living systems.
About the Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP).
The Space Life Sciences Training Program is a challenging summer research program hosted by NASA Ames Research Center.
The program provides professional training in space life sciences and supports NASA’s long-term mission by preparing students to contribute to future research and development challenges.
The program’s primary objective is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and scientific experience needed to design and support life science research conducted in microgravity environments, including research carried out aboard the International Space Station and other spacecraft.
The SLSTP Experience.
SLSTP participants work directly with NASA experts on research projects and benefit from the strong concentration of bioscience expertise available at NASA Ames.
In addition to research work, participants take part in multiple learning and development activities, including:
- Technical lectures delivered by NASA professionals and researchers
- Tours of NASA facilities and research environments
- Training in scientific presentation skills
- Professional development activities to strengthen career readiness
The program also provides participants with the opportunity to present their work formally and submit an abstract to a professional scientific organization such as the American Society for Gravitational and Space Research.
Research Areas.
Students selected for the program undertake research in various space biosciences fields. These include:
- Studying the effects of spaceflight on living systems, both on Earth and in space
- Supporting biological research aboard the International Space Station
- Developing and operating specialized research facilities for microgravity, partial gravity, and hyper gravity studies
- Researching advanced biotechnologies that support NASA’s exploration goals
These projects allow students to gain exposure to tools and methodologies used in biological experiments conducted in flight environments.
Applicants can view the list of available projects for the summer 2026 term through the official NASA internship platform.
Program Duration and Benefits.
The SLSTP is a ten-week summer program that provides professional experience in research, laboratory work, and scientific communication.
Participants in the program receive:
- A stipend
- Hands-on research experience with NASA experts
- Opportunities to develop technical and professional skills
- Exposure to NASA’s space biosciences research systems
- Possible eligibility to attend a scientific conference to present research findings
This experience is ideal for students seeking competitive research exposure and long-term academic and scientific growth.
Eligibility Requirements.
Admission into SLSTP is highly competitive. Applicants are selected based on academic merit, passion for space research, and strong motivation in the field of space life sciences.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be in high academic standing with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Must be an undergraduate student entering junior or senior year
- Or a senior graduating in 2026 and entering graduate school in Fall 2026
- Graduate students entering Fall 2026 are also eligible
How to Apply.
- Applicants can access the full project descriptions and submit their online application through NASA’s internship portal.
- Applicants should also review the available projects list for the 2026 summer term before applying.
Program Support.
- The SLSTP is funded by NASA’s Space Biology Program, which operates under the Biological and Physical Sciences Division.
- The program is managed by the Space Biology Project within the Science Directorate at NASA Ames Research Center.
- For inquiries, applicants may contact: arc-slstp@mail.nasa.gov
Final Thought
The NASA Space Life Sciences Training Program 2026 is a valuable opportunity for students interested in life sciences, space biology, biotechnology, and space research.
Participants gain direct exposure to NASA research environments while building strong scientific and professional skills.
Applicants are encouraged to explore the available projects and submit their applications early through the NASA internship portal.
