- Exciting undergraduate opportunities at Australia’s national science agency
- Gain firsthand experience with world‑leading researchers
- Explore a career in science over the summer holidays
Opportunity
Our Undergraduate Vacation Studentships run over the Australian summer holiday period and offer promising undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in real‑world projects, collaborate with leading CSIRO researchers, and experience our world‑class facilities.
Participation provides insight into future study and career directions, and many previous students have pursued PhDs and built successful research careers within CSIRO, universities or industry.
CSIRO Energy is developing cleaner, more affordable and reliable energy solutions for Australia, supporting the transition to low‑carbon electrification and decarbonisation.
Projects
Energy currently has 8 projects available across disciplines such as engineering, physical sciences, environmental and sustainability studies, and data and computational sciences. Project details and contact information are available in the Energy Project List.
Location
Canberra, Brisbane and Hobart (refer to the project list for specific details).
Stipend
$2,056.32 per fortnight.
Duration
8 to 12 weeks between November 2026 and February 2027.
Reference
Eligibility and Requirements
- Enrolled in an undergraduate course at an Australian tertiary institution.
- Completed at least 1 year (full‑time equivalent) of undergraduate study at the commencement of the studentship.
- Robust academic record (credit average or higher)
and/or proven capability in the field.
- Interest in pursuing a research career in science or technology, or a related discipline.
- Available to undertake an 8‑to‑12‑week placement over the summer vacation period.
Applications are open to Australian/New Zealand citizens, Australian permanent residents, and international students with full work rights for the duration of the placement (no visa sponsorship required). Application may be subject to a national police check and additional security, medical or character clearances.
Inclusion and Belonging
CSIRO is an equal‑employment‑opportunity organisation committed to creating diverse and inclusive teams. The organisation holds Platinum Status for the Australian Workplace Equality Index for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and a Science in Australia Gender Equity Bronze Award.
How to Apply
- Submit a Resume/CV and Cover Letter as a single document in the “Resume/CV” field. The cover letter should explain why the selected projects are of interest and how the program supports your career aspirations.
- Upload an unofficial academic transcript in the “Cover Letter” field.
- Select your university from the Education Institute list in the “Education” section.
- Select two preferred Energy research projects in order of preference in the “Project‑Specific Information” section.
- Enter your Grade Point Average (GPA) according to your university’s methodology. If you have a WAM, calculate a GPA using the provided formula.