Now Accepting Applications for the Summer 2026 Program

Deadline to Apply is January 20, 2026.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Mickey Leland Energy Fellowship (MLEF) Program is a 10-week summer research internship for undergraduate and master's students in STEM majors. Participants complete a cutting-edge research project at one of the Department’s National Laboratories or DOE Headquarters in support of the Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management.

MLEF participants are mentored by DOE scientists and engineers while completing a research project over the course of the summer. At the end of the program, participants present their research findings at the MLEF Technical Forum. During the 10-week appointment, fellows receive a weekly stipend, and may be eligible to receive travel and housing assistance.

Additional Information

Why apply?

You will:

  • Learn from and collaborate with scientists, engineers and professionals in your field to address the nation’s current challenges and establish long-term relationships and connections.
  • Develop critical skills and contribute to mission-related research activities.
  • Gain a competitive advantage for your future as you apply your education and talent in a variety of settings.

Am I eligible?

  • Be at least 18 years of age at time of application.
  • Be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must be in the United States, its territories, or residing on a United States military base for the entire duration of the appointment, even if remote participation has been approved.
  • Have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.8.
  • Be currently enrolled full-time as a degree-seeking student in a STEM program at an accredited college or university at the associate, bachelor’s, or master’s level at the time of application. Students enrolled in institutions outside of the U.S. are not eligible to apply.
  • Be a college sophomore or higher at the time of application. Must have completed at least one year as a matriculated undergraduate student at the time of applying. Advanced Placement credits or other undergraduate credits obtained prior to undergraduate enrollment cannot be applied to meet the minimum one-year completion requirement.
  • Be available to participate in the full 10-week program.

More information is available on the Information for Applicants page.

What will I receive?

  • Stipend: Participants receive a  stipend to help with the cost of living  and other expenses during the appointment.
    • Undergraduate students receive a stipend of $7,500 for the 10-week program
    • Master’s students receive a stipend of $8,500 for the 10-week program
  • Travel and Housing: Depending on your project assignment, you may be eligible to receive travel and housing assistance.