The practicum (research experience) is a unique opportunity for DOE CSGF fellows to work in a DOE laboratory with some of the most respected scientists in the world. This experience offers the fellows insight into how their scientific interests can translate to research areas important to the nation. Working outside of their thesis studies, the fellows use the practicum as a time to learn new skills and expand their research capabilities.
Fellows choose from 21 DOE facilities (and 22 physical locations) when planning for their 12-week practicum. The experience is typically undertaken during the summer months, but may be completed at any time within the first two years of the fellowship. An additional financial allowance is provided to cover extra expenses during this time.
Each site has dedicated a staff member in the role of practicum coordinator. These individuals, a number of whom are DOE CSGF alumni, assist fellows in finding a practicum host and help them with questions during the on-site experience.
“Practicums often present opportunities to perform research that would not have been possible otherwise (due to staffing, time constraints, etc.). Most practicum research plans emerge from discussions between fellows and lab staff, and they often follow existing ideas that lab staff have which are interesting but for which they do not have time. Many practicums lead to publications as well.”