Are you interested to learn how science can address energy problems? Would you like to work with an early-stage startup company in a wide-ranging business capacity? Are you looking for a paid internship that gives you professional experience? If you’re passionate about making an impact, we invite you to apply!  

The Students for Energy & Entrepreneurial Development (SEED) intern program offers students an exciting way to learn about entrepreneurship through business internships with a STEM focus by being paired with one of CRI’s energy and science technology startups. The internship supports a comprehensive pipeline for students to make an impact through science careers.

Selected candidates will be matched with a Chain Reaction Innovation (CRI) startup, based on compatible interests. You will support the startup’s entrepreneurial development by participating in business-focused tasks. Selected candidate will have a dedicated mentor who designs the internship to fit individual skills and goals. By the time your internship concludes, you’ll have a capstone project that frames your internship experience.  

The companies participating in the Summer 2026 Cohort are: 

• Photon Queue

• C1 Bio

• CaviLinQ

• MXene, Inc

• Hidrogenics

Overview 

• Focused on undergraduate students from Chicago area colleges and universities

• Summer 2026, hybrid

• 5 students to be selected

• Entrepreneurial focus

• Collaborative partnerships between CRI, Argonne and CRI’s startup companies

• Career development and exploration

Benefits

• Paid entrepreneurial experience

• Skill building with inclusive support

• Mentorship and professional networking

• Hybrid work schedule

Note: All interns are required to pass a drug screening upon acceptance of the offer.

Student responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

• Students are required to observe and adhere to all Argonne National Laboratory safety guidelines and expectations 

• Students will be expected to be timely, engaged, responsible, and complete designated tasks to their best abilities. 

• Students will work closely with supervisors and associates. Students should be prepared to engage in logistics support tasks, management practices, being present in meetings, and contribute valuable insights to their respective teams. 

• Students will also be expected to engage in CRI and Argonne community activities. 

• Students are expected to deliver a final presentation outlining the work completed during the internship 

• Open to any undergraduate students from Chicago area colleges and universities

• Undergraduate students majoring in engineering, sciences and/or interested in business development are encouraged to apply.  

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident 

• If offered employment, students must pass a background check and drug screening 

• Preferred GPA: minimum 2.5 out of 4.0 and higher 

• Provide two (2) reference contacts and proof of enrollment when prompted via candidate dashboard 

• Good academic standing and understanding of course materials 

• Effective writing and communication skills 

• Microsoft Suite Knowledge