I'm very happy working at my current summer internship, but there is a lab opportunity at my University next summer that is very well regarded (most employees at my internship have worked there) that I am going to apply to. It is extremely competitive and there's a good chance I won't get it.
Should I tell my current internship employer now that I'm applying to this lab for next summer? Or should I wait to see if I get the lab job first?
EDIT: Also this lab job needs a recommendation from my previous employer. Should I get it from someone lower in the company and ask them not to tell management?