CERSA INTERNSHIPS
CERSA INTERNSHIPS
This internship and mentoring program will run from May to August and are open to students enrolled in at NC State University and Louisiana State University. Students in the program will be offered a stipend by CERSA.
Program Description
The Center of Excellence for Regulatory Science in Agriculture (CERSA) at NC State helps prepare the next generation of scientists and regulatory professionals by connecting students with hands-on internship experiences. Our interns have worked with government regulators, industry leaders, non-profits, and academic institutions. These internships help students build skills, expand professional networks, and contribute meaningfully to regulatory work that supports North Carolina’s agricultural and research communities.
During the 2025-2026 academic year, students will have the opportunity to apply to the CERSA internship program, to be held May-August, 2026. Students will indicate the area(s) they would most like to gain experience in (e.g. private, public, NGO). Mentors will have the opportunity to view applications, and we will match students and mentors based on most appropriate fit.
Once students and mentors are matched, they will meet so that interns can indicate their professional goals to their host organization, and mentors can outline internship expectations. While our program will facilitate the internships, ultimately it will be up to the intern and the professional mentor to be sure that they get the most of the program. CERSA will provide professional development activities and feedback for student interns during the course of the program to help prepare students for success in their careers.
Eligibility and Application
Must be a currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student in good standing at one of CERSA’s founding universities — North Carolina State University or Louisiana State University. Students in the Regulatory Agriculture Certificate Program will be given preference, unless otherwise stated in the project abstract.
Prior to the internship, students must complete or be enrolled in one or more of the regulatory science courses offered through CERSA.
Internships run up to 40 hours per week for a period of three months during the summer. Hosts and students will agree on the work format (in-person, remote, or hybrid) depending on what best fits the project. CERSA will provide the student stipend for the duration of the internship. Hosts provide guidance, mentorship, and supervision for a meaningful experience.
CERSA checks in regularly with interns throughout the summer to support their progress and experience. At the end of the internship, each student completes a final product, such as a report, presentation, or other deliverable, help them reflect on and communicate what they’ve learned.
Meet Previous Interns
Learn more about their experiences working with regulatory science professionals in industry,
government and nonprofits.