CSSL Internship Program
UPDATE (FEBRUARY 8, 2026):
Thank you again to everyone who applied to the CSSL Internship Program this year. We received 270 applications, and we were genuinely encouraged by the number of strong candidates and the high quality of submissions.
At this time, we have contacted the candidates selected to interview for the internships. While we appreciate the interest in the program, it is unlikely that additional interview invitations will be extended. Many excellent applications were not selected for interviews simply due to the limited number of available positions.
We are grateful for the time, effort, and interest shown by all applicants, and we hope you will consider applying again in the future.
The Canadian Severe Storms Laboratory (CSSL) Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for students passionate about atmospheric science, severe weather, GIS, engineering, computer science, and field research. Our program is designed to provide hands-on experience and research skills through three specialized internships, each focusing on different aspects of severe weather in Canada. The internships are ideal for students looking to gain practical field experience or delve into research on severe weather phenomena like tornadoes and hail.
Compensation: $10,000 CAD
Length: 17 weeks from May 4 - August 28, 2026
Who Should Apply?
The CSSL Internship Program is open to undergraduate and high-school students in any field. Although these internships are particularly suited for those who want to build a career in meteorology, engineering, or geography / GIS, every interested student is encouraged to apply. The following eligibility criteria do apply:
- Canadian citizen, international student (at a Canadian university / college), or permanent resident.
- Registered student at a university, college, or high school (and will still be enrolled in an academic program in September 2026).
- Available from May 4 – August 28, 2026 (university, college) or from July 6 – August 28, 2026 (high school).
- Able to attend one of the two mandatory information sessions.
Internship Types
For students intrigued by tornadoes, this internship offers a field-based experience that focuses on post-event forensic analysis of tornado damage. This internship is mostly based in London, ON. There are also limited positions available in Winnipeg, MB.
CSSL Field Internship: Hail
For students intrigued by hail events, this internship offers a field-based experience that focuses on hailstorm chasing and data collection. This internship is based in Olds, AB.
CSSL Research Internship
The Research Internship is designed for those interested in the analytical side of severe weather studies. Interns will work closely with CSSL scientists on data analysis, modeling, and research projects related to severe weather patterns and impacts. This internship is based in London, ON.
Information Sessions
These virtual information sessions are provided so that you can learn more about the Canadian Severe Storms Laboratory, as well as the internships. The reason that attending one information session is mandatory is we want to provide as much information as possible to you about what these internships entail before you apply. Pre-registration is required at the provided links. Dates and times for the info sessions can be found below:
January 14th, 2026
January 22nd, 2026
Application
Note that applications open on December 1, 2025; and the deadline for applications is on January 26, 2026. The above links will not work until applications open.
Why the CSSL Internship Program is a Standout Opportunity for Students
As the coordinator for the CSSL Internship Program, I’m proud to say that this program is the best summer internship available for undergraduate students at Western University (and beyond!). Our internships offer an unparalleled blend of hands-on field experience, rigorous research projects, and close mentorship with seasoned scientists, making them ideal for students eager to push the boundaries of their knowledge and skills.
The hands-on fieldwork available through our Field Internships (whether through forensically assessing tornado damage or tracking & collecting data on hail events) immerses students in the raw, unpredictable reality of severe weather phenomena. This is a direct encounter with the elements that few programs can match. Our Research Internship provides students a chance to analyze real-world data and contribute to innovative projects on severe weather patterns and impacts. Working side by side with CSSL’s research team, interns develop skills that are useful for whatever career path they choose.
I believe that every aspiring scientist deserves a mentorship-rich environment to grow. At CSSL, our interns aren’t just “helping out”... they are valued team members whose insights and dedication drive our work forward. This program opens doors not only to future research opportunities but also to a deeper understanding of what it takes to make meaningful contributions in atmospheric science.
If you’re wanting to step into the world of severe weather research, this is where you’ll find the best experience in Canada to do so.
Connell Miller, Ph.D.
Internship Coordinator - Canadian Severe Storms Laboratory
Questions?
If you have any questions, we have made a FAQ page available for you! If you have any further questions that are not answered there, you can feel free to contact the coordinator for CSSL internships, Dr. Connell Miller, at CSSLInternship@uwo.ca.
