Understanding Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) and Domain Science Skills Development in National Laboratory Postgraduate Internships

Volume 17, Issue 2 (November 2026), pp. 46–56

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@article{jocse-17-2-8,
  author={Morgan Fong and Hilary Egen and Marc Day and Kristin Potter and Michael J. Martin},
  title={Understanding Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) and Domain Science Skills Development in National Laboratory Postgraduate Internships},
  journal={The Journal of Computational Science Education},
  year=2026,
  month=nov,
  volume=17,
  issue=2,
  pages={46--56},
  doi={https://doi.org/10.22369/issn.2153-4136/17/2/8}
}

Background and Context: Harnessing advanced computing for scientific discovery and technological innovation demands scientists and engineers well-versed in both domain science and computational science and engineering (CSE). However, many universities lack the resources needed to provide integrated training. National laboratories offer internship opportunities capable of developing these skills. We present an evaluation of federally-funded post-graduate internship outcomes in CSE at a national laboratory. We seek to answer three questions: 1) What computational, research, and professional skills do students improve through internships at the selected national laboratory? 2) Do students gain knowledge in domain science topics through their internships? 3) Do students' career interests change after these internships.