ASPIRE Environmental Remediation Graduate Intern

SRNL's research intern (summer 2026) will contribute to the environmental protection mission by investigating innovative approaches for groundwater remediation at the Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site. This project will evaluate humate as a novel geochemical amendment to improve the long-term performance of the F-Area funnel-and-gate treatment system. The current system relies on periodic chemical injections to neutralize acidic groundwater, and this project seeks a more sustainable buffering mechanism. The intern will assist scientists in conducting laboratory-scale geochemical experiments to compare humate’s buffering performance with the current alkaline injection formulation.

Responsibilities

• Have educational or laboratory research experience
• Think critically, analyze data, and integrate these skills into effective experimental design, execution, and reporting
• Develop partnerships with internal team members of different backgrounds
• Effectively communicate (verbal & written) technical results
• Work safely with particular attention to quality; comply with all policies and standards
• Design and execute laboratory titration experiments
• Perform forward titrations to determine amendment requirements for achieving target pH values
• Conduct back titrations to evaluate buffering capacity during simulated groundwater acidification

Requirements

• U.S. Citizen
• Pursuing an advanced degree in chemistry or a related field
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher; transcript required prior to hiring

Qualifications

• Hands-on research experience in a chemical laboratory
• Knowledge of environmental chemistry principles
• Experience with analytical techniques such as titration
• Strong analytical, organizational, and scientific communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently on experimental research

About Us

Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) is a multi-program laboratory applying state-of-the-art science and practical, high-value, cost-effective solutions to complex technical problems to protect the nation. Located at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Savannah River Site (SRS) in Aiken, SC, the laboratory develops and deploys innovative technologies to address environmental, energy, and national security challenges.

Benefits

• Highly competitive medical, dental, and vision options, including HSA options with company-provided seed
• Short- and long-term disability (company-paid)
• Life insurance (non-contributory, 1× salary, company-paid)
• AD&D (non-contributory, 1× salary, company-paid)
• Savings & investment plan:
  • Qualified non-elective company contribution of 5% each pay period with immediate vesting
  • Company match of 50 cents per dollar up to 8% (5-year vesting in company match)
• Contributory life insurance up to 5× salary with $1M cap
• Contributory AD&D (employee, spouse, and children)
• Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Plan

SRNL offers a competitive relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions.