Post Bachelors Research Associate - METALLIC LIFT

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is hosting a Minerals to Materials Supply Chain Research Facility (METALLIC) Laboratory-to-Industry-For Talent (LIFT) program. METALLIC is a Department of Energy (DOE) initiative led by the National Energy Technology Laboratory and supported by a consortium of nine national laboratories. METALLIC LIFT is an emerging workforce development effort that embeds workforce development directly into the critical minerals and materials (CMM) innovation ecosystem, providing a key pathway to careers in the supply-chain ecosystem. LIFT delivers impact immediately by creating career interest while building durable talent pipelines aligned with DOE priorities. It leverages DOE national laboratory capabilities to drive institutional capacity, create jobs, and pave pathways to CMM careers in the Lab system and industry. Integrating workforce development into METALLIC ensures technical advances translate into deployable capacity, resilient regional ecosystems, and a workforce capable of securing America’s critical mineral future.

This internship begins on September 28, 2026. Applicants must be available to start on that date and work on-site at the Richland campus.

Responsibilities

• Perform wet chemistry and separation experiments, including liquid-liquid solvent extraction, ion exchange, sorption, and crystallization
• Accurately document experimental protocols, organize data, and communicate results to the research team
• Learn to independently execute experimental testing and prioritize tasks in a dynamic research environment

Requirements

• Candidates must have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university within the past 24 months, or complete their bachelor's degree by September 18, 2026
• Must be able to start on September 28, 2026

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree earned within the past 24 months or completion by September 18, 2026
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • BS degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related discipline
  • Highly motivated to learn fundamental and applied aspects of separation chemistry and acquire new experimental skills
  • Experience working in a chemistry lab
  • Functional knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite tools

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. PNNL attracts dynamic, driven individuals to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations, and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors. The laboratory offers an exciting research environment and excellent benefits, including health insurance and flexible work schedules.

PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3-hour drive) from Seattle or Portland and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Robust telehealth care options and several mental health benefits
• Free wellness coaching and health savings account
• Flexible spending accounts
• Basic life insurance and disability insurance*
• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance
• Tuition assistance and relocation support
• Backup childcare, legal benefits, and supplemental parental bonding leave
• Surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support
• Company-funded pension plan* and 401(k) savings plan with company match*
• Up to 120 vacation hours per year and ten paid holidays per year

*Research Associates excluded. All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.

Pay

Minimum Salary: USD $27.50/Hr.

Maximum Salary: USD $35.77/Hr.