About the role#
This internship focuses on the implementation and validation of graphite degradation models for high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs) using the Pronghorn code. You will report to the Multiphysics Computational Frameworks team. The project may begin with simple empirical models and progress toward higher-fidelity approaches that account for local temperature, gas conditions, and their effects on graphite properties.
What you'll do#
- Review literature to identify degradation mechanisms, existing models, and experimental data.
- Implement selected models within the Pronghorn framework.
- Develop tests and validation cases for the models.
- Compare model predictions against published data.
- Assess sensitivity to key assumptions.
- Document the applicability and limitations of the models.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment as a full-time Master or Doctorate student in Nuclear Engineering, Energy Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- A minimum overall 3.0 GPA.
- Coursework or research experience in thermomechanical analysis, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer.
- Ability to provide a current resume, unofficial transcripts, and your current class schedule.
- Please note that applicants are subject to the requirements of the DOE Unclassified Foreign National Access Program.
Location & details#
- This position is located in Idaho Falls, Idaho.
- The role is on-site with a 9x80s schedule.
- The internship term is Summer 2027.
- Compensation is based on degree level: Master ($35.34-$37.73/hour), PhD Pre-Candidacy ($36.83-$39.33/hour), or PhD Post-Candidacy ($38.65-$41.29/hour).
- Benefits include paid holiday time off and potential travel reimbursement for eligible interns.
- Physical requirements include the ability to stand, walk, sit, and lift up to 35 pounds.
- We do not provide H1-B visa sponsorship.
About Idaho National Laboratory
Idaho National Laboratory is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory founded in 1949. It supports the United States Department of Energy through research in nuclear science, energy, and national defense. The laboratory operates from an 890-square-mile site and employs over 4,000 people. Its research spans robotics, wind power, biofuels, and critical infrastructure protection.
How to get in at Idaho National Laboratory
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