Undergraduate Research Internship in Low-Carbon Methanol Production

2025 Undergraduate Summer Research Internship in Low-Carbon Methanol Production from Stranded Methane

This program focuses on process development in support of optimizations and designs of portable, modular flare gas to methanol technologies in partnership with M2X Energy Inc., which involves, but is not limited to:

• Benchtop instrument design, experimentation, data acquisition
• Apparatus assembly and operation
• Written and oral reporting of processes and results
• Experience with chemical process simulations

Successful applicants will be currently or recently enrolled in a relevant engineering or chemistry program prior to onboarding and have hands-on experience in laboratory research and data analysis.  Preferred applicants should show interest in sustainable chemistry and processes with experience in designing and developing bench scale instrumentations, CAD programming, and creative problem solving.  Successful applicants will work closely with both FSEC staff and industrial counterparts on real-world solutions for a decarbonized future. 

Minimum Requirements

Enrollment or recent completion in an engineering or science undergraduate program and basic proficiency in one or more of the following: chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or chemistry with scientific lab work.

Preferred Requirements

• Hands-on experience in bench-scale instrumentation development and experimentation. Familiar with fittings and gas cylinder handling.
• Experience with CAD building models and piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) interpretation and drafting.
• Track records with detailed documentation of experimental procedure, SOPs plus good data management skills.
• Strong communication skills and awareness of other technical staff, external partners, equipment/instrument manufacturers, etc. 
• Familiarity with data processing using Excel, Origin, or other programs
• Some experience with chemical process simulation (chemCAD, Aspen, etc.)

Applicants must apply for the position electronically through  https://www.ucf.edu/jobs/ and submit the following: 1) cover letter , 2) current curriculum vita, 3) copies of all academic transcripts, and 4) summary of past research projects (please specify your involvement and contribution in each project).  When prompted during the online application process, please provide names, phone numbers and email addresses of three professional references. Only complete application materials will be considered.  

Desired starting date: early May, 2025

For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Daniel Ramirez, University of Central Florida at (321) 638-1416 or by email, daniel.ramirez2@ucf.edu