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

Background: 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, few universities provide access to both integrated domain science/CSE cross-training and Top-500 High-Performance Computing (HPC) facilities. National laboratories offer internship opportunities capable of developing these skills. Purpose: This student presents an evaluation of federally-funded postgraduate internship outcomes at a national laboratory. This study seeks to answer three questions: 1) What computational skills, research skills, 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? Design/Method: We developed a survey and collected responses from past participants of five federally-funded internship programs and compare participant ratings of their prior experience to their internship experience. Findings: Our results indicate that participants improve CSE skills and domain science knowledge, and are more interested in working at national labs. Participants go on to degree programs and positions in relevant domain science topics after their internships. Conclusions: We show that national laboratory internships are an opportunity for students to build CSE skills that may not be available at all institutions. We also show a growth in domain science skills during their internships through direct exposure to research topics. The survey instrument and approach used may be adapted to other studies to measure the impact of postgraduate internships in multiple disciplines and internship settings.