About the role#
Periodic Labs is seeking a Nanofabrication Intern to support the development of AI models that connect materials discovery with device-relevant form factors. You will work on validating materials through thin films, patterned structures, and process flows for applications in semiconductors, memory, and photonics. This role involves direct participation in process development and the generation of high-quality experimental data to support our AI training pipeline.
What you'll do#
- Execute hands-on nanofabrication processes for silicon-based microelectronic, photonic, MEMS, or optical devices, including lithography, thin-film deposition, etch, substrate preparation, and cleanroom workflows.
- Support lithography processes such as spin coating, baking, mask alignment, exposure, development, lift-off, and optical inspection.
- Operate or support thin-film deposition techniques such as sputtering, evaporation, PVD, PLD, ALD, or PECVD.
- Run or assist with etch processes including wet etching, plasma etching, RIE, or ICP-RIE.
- Prepare substrates, manage process flows, track samples, and maintain detailed experimental records that meet the data quality standards required for AI training.
- Perform characterization using tools such as profilometry, ellipsometry, SEM, optical microscopy, XRD/XRR, or 4-point probe.
- Collaborate with scientists and engineers to troubleshoot process issues, identify failure modes, and iterate on workflows.
- Adhere to rigorous laboratory safety and facility protocols.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in electrical engineering, materials science, applied physics, mechanical engineering, chemistry, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience in a university cleanroom, nanofabrication facility, semiconductor lab, photonics lab, MEMS lab, or similar research environment.
- Practical exposure to lithography, deposition, and etch processes, with an understanding of how these steps connect in a device fabrication flow.
- Ability to work independently in shared research facilities while following documentation standards and learning new equipment quickly.
Location & details#
- Location: Menlo Park, California.
- Term: Summer 2026.
- Modality: This is a full-time, on-site position.
- Benefits: This is a paid internship. Visa sponsorship is available.
About Periodic Labs
Periodic Labs develops artificial intelligence systems for scientific research. The company builds autonomous laboratories designed to operate these AI scientists. It is based in Menlo Park, California. The firm was founded in 2025 and employs 78 people.
How to get in at Periodic Labs
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