About the role#
The MICRO Research Group is seeking a graduate intern to support advanced work with focused ion beam (FIB) and plasma FIB (PFIB) instrumentation. This role centers on a unique, laser-integrated PFIB platform that combines laser-assisted sample preparation with AI-driven automation. You will work alongside staff scientists and engineers to maintain this platform and develop workflows that extend its autonomous capabilities.
What you'll do#
- Assist with the maintenance, calibration, and performance validation of FIB, PFIB, and laser PFIB instruments.
- Develop and test Python-based scripting and automation routines for ion beam control, image acquisition, and adaptive workflow execution.
- Build and validate computer vision pipelines for real-time site identification, feature detection, and sample quality assessment.
- Support time-sensitive customer characterization assignments, including sample preparation, data collection, and the preparation of concise technical reports.
- Explore the integration of foundation models and large language models (LLMs) to facilitate natural language instrument interfacing and automated decision-making.
What you'll need#
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average.
- A strong background in materials science, physics, chemistry, engineering, or a closely related discipline at the master’s level.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- The ability to work effectively in diverse, multidisciplinary research teams.
- You must meet all educational requirements prior to your employment start date.
Location & details#
- Location: Golden, Colorado.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Employment Type: Full-time.
- Term: Rolling.
About National Renewable Energy Laboratory
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory operates as the primary national laboratory for the United States Department of Energy focused on energy systems research. Founded in 1977, the organization conducts research in energy efficiency, basic science, and energy security. It maintains a staff of approximately 3,751 employees. The laboratory is based in Golden, Colorado.
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