Physics Laboratory EDGE Intern

PHYSICS LABORATORY EDGE INTERN

About the Converse EDGE Internship Program

The Converse EDGE Internship Program provides students with meaningful, career-connected experiences that integrate professional skill development with hands-on workplace learning.

Through mentorship, reflection, assessment, and practical application, EDGE Interns develop the career readiness competencies employers seek while making valuable contributions to campus departments and programs.

Position Description

The Physics Laboratory EDGE Intern supports physics instruction through laboratory preparation, equipment management, grading support, and organization of physics materials within the Department of Natural Sciences. The intern will prepare and test equipment for laboratory activities, maintain records of physics materials, and identify equipment that may require repair or replacement.

In addition to ongoing laboratory responsibilities, the intern will complete projects designed to improve the organization and efficiency of physics laboratory operations. This position provides hands-on experience with scientific equipment, laboratory processes, documentation, inventory management, and instructional support.

Professional Development Outcomes (What You Will Gain)

By participating in this internship, students will:

• Gain hands-on experience preparing and testing equipment for physics laboratory instruction.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by evaluating the condition and usefulness of laboratory equipment.
• Strengthen organizational and documentation skills through equipment inventory and laboratory setup projects.
• Develop professional judgment, reliability, and attention to detail within an academic science environment.
• Gain experience creating resources that improve laboratory operations and support future students and faculty.

Key Responsibilities

Physics Laboratory Preparation

• Set up physics laboratories and test materials and equipment to ensure they are functioning properly before use.
• Dismantle laboratory setups following instructional activities and return equipment and materials to appropriate locations.
• Identify equipment or materials that may require repair or replacement and communicate those needs to the supervisor.

Equipment, Inventory & Instructional Support

• Maintain accurate records of physics equipment, materials, and their condition.
• Organize and maintain the physics stockroom and equipment to support efficient laboratory preparation.
• Support grading and grade recording for physics courses as directed by the supervisor.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Physics Equipment Inventory Project

Create a comprehensive inventory of physics equipment and materials, including documentation of equipment condition and status. The completed inventory will provide faculty with a resource for planning laboratory activities and identifying future equipment purchases, repairs, or replacements.

Physics Laboratory Setup Guide Project

Develop a job list or setup guide for physics laboratories that documents the materials, equipment, and steps needed to prepare laboratory activities. This resource will support consistent and efficient laboratory preparation and provide guidance for future Physics Laboratory EDGE Interns.

Career Readiness Competencies Developed

Communication

Develop clear written documentation and communicate equipment, inventory, and laboratory needs effectively with the supervisor.

Critical Thinking

Evaluate laboratory equipment for functionality and condition and identify materials that may require repair or replacement.

Professionalism

Demonstrate reliability, accuracy, responsibility, and attention to detail while supporting laboratory instruction and handling departmental equipment.

Career & Self-Development

Develop workplace skills and gain practical experience within an academic physics and laboratory environment.

Technology

Use Microsoft Word and Excel to organize, document, and maintain laboratory equipment and instructional information.

Qualifications

Biology, biochemistry, or chemistry majors preferred.

Sophomore standing preferred.

Minimum 2.7 GPA.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

Standing for extended periods.

Lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 35 pounds.

Supervision, Mentorship & Evaluation

EDGE Interns receive ongoing coaching, mentorship, and feedback throughout the academic year. The supervisor will provide guidance on laboratory preparation, equipment evaluation, documentation, workplace expectations, and professional development, with informal check-ins provided as needed.

As part of the Converse EDGE Internship Program, interns participate in a structured assessment process designed to measure growth in career readiness competencies and professional development.

Position Details

Position Type: EDGE Intern

Department: Natural Sciences

Duration: Fall 2026 and Spring 2027

Pay Rate: $12.00 per hour

Hours: Approximately 5 hours per week (not to exceed approved weekly allocation)

Number of Positions Available: 1

Schedule: Determined in coordination with the supervisor