The Illinois State Geological Survey is thrilled to announce the 4th Annual Paul Edwin Potter Internship Program for the Summer of 2025.
This prestigious program celebrates the remarkable legacy of Paul E. Potter (1925–2020), a pioneering sedimentologist and stratigrapher whose contributions have shaped our understanding of sedimentary basins. His early career began at ISGS, where he mentored colleagues and advanced geological research. He later taught at the University of Cincinnati, leaving an enduring legacy as an educator and researcher. The Paul Edwin Potter Internship Program, funded by his generous bequest, continues his mission to inspire and equip the next generation of geoscientists.
About the Internship
The Potter Internship offers students hands-on experience in geologic research and fieldwork, focusing on issues relevant to Illinois. Over the course of 10 weeks, interns will collaborate with ISGS professionals on cutting-edge projects, gaining valuable skills and contributing to meaningful research.
Eligibility
Open to undergraduate and master’s students enrolled at any accredited U.S. higher education institution.
Compensation
Stipend
$7,500 total, distributed in three monthly payments of $2,500 on June 16, July 16, and August 16, 2025.
Breakdown
- $5,000 for full-time participation (40 hours/week)
- $2,500 to support housing, meals, and travel to and from Champaign-Urbana.
- Interns are responsible for arranging their own accommodation and transportation.
Previous Internship Highlights
In recent years, interns have worked on diverse and impactful projects, including:
- 2022: Coastal geology, wetlands research, geochemistry, and hydrogeology.
- 2023: Geophysics and stratigraphy.
- 2024: Aquifer mapping, REE exploration, paleoenvironmental tracers, carbon sequestration, and environmental geology.