Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

Preservation & Restoration
Summer Fellowship

Overview
Requirements
Fellowship Details

Fellowship Overview


Do you love aviation? Do you enjoy working with your hands? In this summer fellowship at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, students get paid to live on-campus and gain exposure to experts in the field as they work on preserving, restoring, cleaning, and caring for historic artifacts and engines. Students will gain a deeper understanding of aviation and space-related topics, learn the informal and informal education process, and gain hands-on experience at one of the world’s most prestigious research institutions! 

The deadline to apply is February 2, 2026!

Project Description
This year, the Base 11 interns will focus on gaining exposure to several disciplines associated with preservation, restoration, conservation, and handling of medium and large artifacts. The specific project will be of a size, scope, and complexity to allow completion in the time frame allotted by the program period – approximately 8 weeks.

Learning Objectives
  • Learn the process of preserving and restoring artifacts
  • Planning and implementation of Museum outreach programs
  • Gain knowledge in reading scientific papers, as well as writing and presenting original scientific research

Fellowship Details

  • When: Takes place Summer 2026
  • Application Deadline: February 2, 2026
  • Program Duration: June to August 2026  
  • Compensation: Receive a $5,500 stipend. Housing included.
  • Transportation Costs: Covered, up to $600


Requirements

  • Minimum GPA: 3.0
  • Level: College & University
  • Compensation: $5,500
  • Setting: In-person
  • Location: Washington D.C.
  • Relevant majors: Engineering, Aerospace, Aviation, or other related STEM fields
  • Mechanical hands-on abilities, such as the use of tools, preferred!

About the Institution

Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum

The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum maintains the world's largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts, encompassing all aspects of human flight, as well as related works of art and archival materials. It operates two landmark facilities that, together, welcome more than eight million visitors a year, making it the most visited museum in the country. It also is home to the Center for Earth and Planetary Studies.
Patrick Jones - Course author