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R10764 Post-Undergraduate (Year-Round) Intern – Chemist / Chemical Engineering

Working at NREL

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado is the nation's primary laboratory for research and development of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.From day one at NREL, you’ll connect with coworkers driven by the same mission to save the planet. By joining an organization that values a supportive, inclusive, and flexible work environment, you’ll have the opportunity to engage through our eight employee resource groups, numerous employee-driven clubs, and learning and professional development classes.

NREL supports inclusive, diverse, and unbiased hiring practices that promote creativity and innovation. By collaborating with organizations that focus on diverse talent pools, reaching out to underrepresented demographics, and providing an inclusive application and interview process, our Talent Acquisition team aims to hear all voices equally. We strive to attract a highly diverse workforce and create a culture where every employee feels welcomed and respected and they can be their authentic selves.

Our planet needs us! Learn about NREL’s critical objectives, and see how NREL is focused on saving the planet.

Note: Research suggests that potential job seekers may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage anyone who is interested in this opportunity to apply. We seek dedicated people who believe they have the skills and ambition to succeed at NREL to apply for this role.


Job Description

The Bioenergy Science and Technology (BEST) directorate within the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) performs a full range of research from exploring biomass at the molecular level through biorefinery process optimization to bring bio-products to market. The directorate has recently expanded its research focus to include analysis, characterization, biochemical processes, bioenergetics, thermochemical processes, polymer science/synthesis, and plastic recycling and upcycling.

Our research group is focused on developing biological and chemical conversion pathways for cost-effective production of fuels and materials from biomass and post-consumer waste. Interdisciplinary collaboration and a relentless pursuit of advancing understanding at the intersection of fundamental science and industrial application is paramount to every member of our team.

This internship position is hiring for full-time work on-site with NREL’s Biorefinery & Catalysis and/or Polymer groups starting in May or June of 2023. As a year-round internship, the ideal candidate will be available for a one-year internship commitment, immediately post-undergraduate completion. This intern will provide researchers wit the support necessary to safely achieve their cutting-edge research—including catalytic lignin valorization, novel bioderivable polymer synthesis, and analysis of environmental micro-plastics. The successful candidate will perform hands-on tasks and experimentation in a laboratory setting including:
  • operation and maintenance of analytical instrumentation
  • batch and flow reactor operation
  • benchtop wet chemistry
  • polymer synthesis and characterization
  • separations

The ability to conduct laboratory experiments with minimal supervision, with the utmost regard to safety is required. Adaptability and an aptitude for learning are critical in this role. This is an excellent opportunity for a student invested in the NREL mission who desires relevant laboratory experience in preparation for graduate school or a career in the biofuels or chemical industries.
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Basic Qualifications

Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a Bachelor's, Master's or PhD degree program, or graduated in the past 12 months from an accredited institution. Internship period cannot exceed 12 months past graduation. Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average.

Please Note:
•You will need to upload official or unofficial school transcripts as part of the application process.
•If selected for position, a letter of recommendation will be required as part of the hiring process.* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.

Additional Required Qualifications

  • Demonstrated general laboratory experience and exposure to analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and/or biochemistry
  • Attention to detail, a fast learner, and have excellent time management skills
  • Work well with a variety of personality types with various levels of technical backgrounds
  • Demonstrated experience following Standard Lab Safety Procedures and setting a safe example
  • Be willing to take direction and work independently to support team goals

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates are expected to have completed a bachelor’s degree in spring 2023 and begin an in-person, full-time internship for a 1-year commitment post-graduation.