About the role#
The Integrated Carbon Conversion Processes Group is seeking an intern to support research focused on de-risking and scaling technologies for producing chemicals, fertilizers, and critical minerals from biomass and waste resources. You will work within a multidisciplinary team to translate laboratory discoveries into processes suitable for pilot-scale demonstration.
What you'll do#
- Perform hands-on experimentation in a laboratory setting.
- Operate batch and flow reactors for algal pretreatment, conversion, chemical production, and polymer synthesis.
- Develop renewable polyurethane materials.
- Conduct benchtop wet chemistry, including sample preparation and derivatization.
- Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation, such as FTIR, NMR, TGA, DSC, and GC-MS.
- Perform liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extractions.
- Assist with bioprocessing scale-up activities.
What you'll need#
- A degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biological Systems Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, or a related discipline.
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
- Current enrollment as a full-time student in a bachelor’s or master’s program, or graduation from such a program within the past 12 months.
- Students who have completed a master’s degree and are enrolled as PhD students are also eligible.
- Ability to conduct laboratory experiments and follow written procedures with minimal supervision.
- Self-motivation, adaptability, and an aptitude for learning.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Preferred: Hands-on experience in wet chemistry, catalytic conversion, process scale-up, polymer synthesis, and advanced analytical chemistry.
Location & details#
- Location: Golden, Colorado.
- Modality: On-site.
- Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week).
- 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.
How to get in at National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Securing a position at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory requires speed, as early applicants often receive more attention before the candidate pool becomes crowded. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, helping you apply among the first. This timing advantage helps you get your materials in front of the team before the pile grows. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the right people. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the position or a referral. This direct approach is often more effective than submitting an application into a general queue.
