NETL, in its commitment to cultivating America’s next generation of scientists, is seeking students from around the country to apply to participate in the 2026 Mickey Leland Energy Fellowship (MLEF) summer program for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

The MLEF program is a 10-week summer research internship for undergraduate and master’s students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (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’s mission. At the end of the program, participants present their research findings at the MLEF technical forum.

MLEF program participants will train under the mentorship of scientists and engineers while completing a mission-focused research project. During the 10-week appointment, participants will receive a biweekly stipend and may be eligible for housing and travel assistance.

The mission of the MLEF program is to strengthen the pipeline of future STEM professionals. The program has provided mentored opportunities for over 1,000 students from across the nation for future careers in the STEM workforce.

“This program provided me with the resources and the skills to develop professionally, academically, and as an emerging scientist,” said Emma Marvelli, who participated in the 2025 MLEF as an intern at NETL. “From the Fuel Up events discussing policies, new technologies, and challenges within the Department of Energy and energy/resource management to learning how to use new equipment and core description practices, to interacting with professionals in the field, this internship allows for hands-on learning in ways that many others do not.”

“Make the most of your research and if you are ever unsure about anything just ask! People are always happy to help you with almost any question you could have,” said Lucas Zukrow, another 2025 MLEF summer program intern at NETL. “Try to meet as many people as you can even just around the office, having those connections could come in handy someday you never know.”

The deadline to submit completed applications for the MLEF Program is 11:59 p.m. EST Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, for internships at NETL sites in Albany, Oregon; Morgantown, West Virginia; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. For more eligibility information and to apply, click here.

Virtual information sessions are available; prospective MLEF program participants may access them here.

NETL is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory dedicated to advancing the nation's energy future by creating innovative solutions that strengthen the security, affordability and reliability of energy systems and natural resources. With laboratories in Albany, Oregon; Morgantown, West Virginia; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, NETL creates advanced energy technologies that support DOE’s mission while fostering collaborations that will lead to a resilient and abundant energy future for the nation.