CGSR Undergraduate Research Associate - Spring 2027

Job description

The Center for Global Security Research (CGSR) was established at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in 1996 to bring together experts from the science, technology, and policy communities to address pressing national security challenges. For over 20 years, CGSR has engaged diverse perspectives on topics important to national security, deterrence, diplomacy, dual-use technology, arms control, nonproliferation, space, cyber, biosecurity, and energy security. We have openings in Spring 2027 for undergraduate students to engage in practical research on global security topics. Students will work with CGSR over the duration of three to four months as a research associate (RA). RAs will engage in practical research to further their educational and career goals, while also supporting the development of strategies for national security and LLNL’s mission focus areas. Examples of relevant fields of research include nuclear deterrence, arms control, nonproliferation, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, space, biological & chemical security, and energy security. CGSR’s objectives are as follows: To explore the dynamics of potential 21st century strategic conflicts (i.e., those with a potential nuclear aspect) and to formulate ideas about how to achieve U.S. deterrence and other objectives in such conflicts. To explore the sources and characteristics of strategic competition in the emerging security environment and to formulate organizing concepts to enhance the competitive position of the United States and its allies and partners over the long term. To identify whether and how technically based approaches can address new challenges to national and international security. To catalyze broader national and international thinking about the requirements of effective deterrence, assurance, and strategic stability in a changed and changing security environment. To assist in the development of new generations of experts motivated by a clear view of the changed and changing security environment. More information on CGSR, its research focus areas, and its publications can be found at . This job will be closed to applicants on October 19, 2026. Internships will take place between January 11, 2027, and May 21, 2027. You will Conduct an independent research project on an agreed upon topic aligned with CGSR/LLNL research priorities under the supervision of CGSR staff. Support CGSR/LLNL through contributions to ongoing research activities. Tasks may include contributing to literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, and workshop summary reports. Attend relevant research seminars, speakers’ series, and workshops. Present research to LLNL staff at end of the assignment. Prepare end-of-assignment technical report or publication. Perform all assignments in accordance with ES&H, security, and business practice requirements and policies. Perform other duties as assigned. Must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). See Additional Information section below for details. Must be currently enrolled in an accredited university or have completed AA/AS degree in a field of research aligned with CGSR analytic priorities. Areas of study include international relations and/or security, political science, economics, public policy, emerging technologies, nonproliferation, energy, biosecurity, foreign language studies, or related fields. Demonstrated academic and/or professional achievement in a relevant field of research aligned with CGSR analytic priorities. Strong record of independent research and publication, or a strong proposal of research to be done while at CGSR and in future academic and professional settings. Ability to work in a team environment. Pay Range $23.26 - $31.62 Hourly This position is under a step structure. Please note that the step is determined by your academic level. Transcripts are required. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory? Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor! Holiday Pay Sick leave accrual Individual 401(k) contributions Our values - visit Security Clearance None required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112. Pre-Employment Drug Test External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor. Wireless and Medical Devices Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices. If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings. How to identify fake job advertisements Please be aware of recruitment scams where people or entities are misusing the name of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to post fake job advertisements. 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Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.