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NREL's Research Support Facility (RSF) on the South Table Mountain permanent site at dusk

View NREL's Research Participant Program Video on YouTube.

The Research Participant Program (RPP) includes opportunities for Undergraduate and Graduate Internships, Postdoctoral Researchers and Research Associates, and Sabbaticals and Faculty Appointments.

Since its inception in 1977, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has played an increasing role in the international development of renewable energy—a role we couldn't have fulfilled without the support of visiting researchers. Here at NREL, we are committed to interacting with educational institutions, industry, and other research organizations through our Research Participant Program (RPP).

RPP participants are involved in exciting discoveries that go on here every day across our many disciplines. Qualified university faculty, students, and professional scientists and engineers have the opportunity to participate in the laboratory's research and development programs, initiate new areas of research, and establish a base for ongoing collaborations. You also can develop expertise in disciplines related to renewable energy research for application at your home institution, or in your future career pursuits.

Undergraduate & Graduate Internships 

Are you a full-time undergraduate or graduate student interested in advancing your education with NREL? Learn more about RPP positions that meet your needs.

Postdoctoral Researchers & Research Associates 

Are you a Ph.D. graduate out of school less than three years, or a scientist, engineer or other research professional with 4–12 years experience? Our postdoc and research associate opportunities will interest you.


Sabbaticals & Faculty Appointments 

Are you a senior scientist or engineer with established records of research productivity and accomplishments, wanting to conduct research away from your home institution? Sabbaticals and faculty appointments are for you.

University Relations 

Are you higher education faculty or staff member interested in setting up internships with NREL? Are you a college or university student interested in locating NREL at a recruiting event? University Relations is the program for you.



Looking for DOE's premier undergraduate internship program? Visit the Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship Program

Visit Foreign Nationals for information about NREL foreign national collaboration.

NREL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.

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