Research and Development Chemist Internship
PAVCO
Internship
Closes on Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Job Description
The R&D Chemist Intern will contribute to the development and optimization of new chemical products and formulations under the guidance of senior chemists. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to gain practical experience in a dynamic laboratory setting, applying scientific principles to real-world business and product challenges. The intern will participate in project-based work, from experimental design and execution to data analysis and reporting.
What should you hope to gain from this internship experience?
- Learn about formulation methodology in at least one of the following areas:
- Electrolytic metal deposition solns.
- Non-electrolytic metal conversion solns.
- Thin-layer organic/inorganic hybrid coatings
- Learn about the electroplating process:
- Redox reactions and potentials
- Relationship of current density to deposited-film characteristics
- Role of each step in the process (e.g. cleaners, activation, plating, post-plate treatment)
- Make up test solutions based on researcher's formulations which involves:
- Weighing solids accurately and safely
- Using micropipettes correctly
- Controlling temperature for proper dissolution and reaction of formulation components
- Test those solutions which involves:
- Electroplating parts
- Learning to process consistently to reduce error
- Learning experimental design methodology
- Clean glassware
- Learn to handle and dispose of hazardous chemicals properly and understand chemical hygiene
- Learn about the electroplating industry itself
- Learn about research ethics and hypothesis- driven research
Hours: Up to 29 hours per week
Dates of Internship: May-August
Qualifications: Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Skills preferred:
- Basic knowledge of chemical principles and standard laboratory techniques.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.