About the role#
The Polymer and Composites group at TE Connectivity is seeking a PhD intern for the summer of 2027. You will join our team in Fremont, California, to work on the development of high-performance materials. This includes projects involving sealants, adhesives, polymer composites, and functional liquid inks. You will gain hands-on experience by assisting in the formulation and characterization of these materials for various industrial applications.
What you'll do#
- Support R&D projects focused on novel polymeric and composite materials.
- Assist with formulation development and application testing.
- Perform chemical and mechanical analysis of new formulations.
- Conduct literature searches to support project goals.
- Document experimental data and generate technical reports.
- Present your findings and results during group meetings.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a PhD program for Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Proficiency in polymer chemistry, composite processing techniques, and material characterization tools like FTIR, SEM/EDS, MS, DSC, TGA, Instron, and rheology.
- A solid understanding of polymer structure-property relationships and interactions with additives.
- Prior hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.
- Ability to work independently, define problems, and develop multiple solutions.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- A self-motivated approach and the ability to work effectively within a team.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, paid internship based on-site in Fremont, California.
- The program term is Summer 2027.
About TE Connectivity
TE Connectivity produces sensors and connectivity solutions for industries including transportation, energy, and automated factories. The company supports data centers and medical technology through the distribution of power and signals. It operates globally with a workforce of over 42,000 people. The organization maintains offices in countries such as Ireland, the United States, Germany, and Poland.
How to get in at TE Connectivity
Applying early gives you a distinct advantage at TE Connectivity, as recruiters often review candidates before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you stay ahead of the crowd. Being among the first to submit your materials ensures your profile is seen while the hiring team is still fresh. You can avoid the frustration of waiting for a status update by acting quickly when a new position appears. Reaching out to the recruiters behind these roles is another way to stand out from the pile. Intern Insider surfaces the specific contacts responsible for TE Connectivity roles, allowing you to ask relevant questions or request a referral. This direct approach often improves your response rates compared to submitting an application into a generic queue. It is a practical way to show genuine interest while building a professional connection.



