Summer 2027 Intern-R&D Intern, Tire Rubber (Charlotte, NC)

About the role

The R&D Intern will research, develop, and validate test methods for rubber compounds using the lab's current equipment. The intern will review industry‑standard techniques, select the best fit for our capabilities, and deliver a documented, repeatable procedure. Gaining practical experience in compound characterization, method development, and technical reporting.

Responsibilities

• Research existing methods: Conduct a literature and industry‑standard review.
• Match method to available equipment: Evaluate the lab's current instrumentation and resources and down‑select the approach(es) that can be executed without new capital investment, documenting the rationale for the chosen method.
• Develop the method: Design and build a practical, step‑by‑step testing procedure which would include sample preparation, test parameters, calculations, and data workflow, tailored to our rubber compounds and lab environment.
• Validate for reliability: Design and run experiments to establish repeatability, reproducibility, and sensitivity of the method; identify sources of variability and define acceptable operating ranges.
• Document & standardization: Draft a clear Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and supporting documentation (lab notebook/OneNote records, data templates) so the method can be reliably repeated by other lab personnel.
• Communicate results: Present findings, progress, and recommendations to the technical team, and provide guidance for implementing the method into routine lab use.
• Follow EHS protocols: Perform all work in full compliance with lab safety and EHS requirements, including proper handling of solvents and chemicals used in testing.

Qualifications

Required:

• Availability: Able to work on‑site 40 hours per week for the full duration of the internship.
• Education: Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Polymer Science/Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science (or a related field), with an anticipated graduation date of Winter 2027 or Spring 2028.
• Minimum GPA 3.0
• Have a method of transportation to and from work.
• Program minimum: Must be actively enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at the time of application and for at least one semester following the conclusion of the internship.
• Education requirement: Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Polymer Science/Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science or related fields.

Preferred:

• Method development mindset: Understands the difference between a single measurement and a validated, repeatable method — able to design experiments to test repeatability, reproducibility, and sensitivity.
• Data & statistics: Proficiency with Excel and ideally a stats tool for curve fitting, regression, and basic error/variability analysis.
• Lab & safety: Hands‑on wet‑lab/instrumentation experience and strong adherence to lab safety/EHS protocols (handling solvents such as toluene for swelling work).
• Documentation & communication: Ability to keep clear, reproducible records (lab notebook/OneNote) and present method results to a technical audience in English.

Pay

Base Pay Range: $22.00 - $26.00. The base salary offered is determined by factors including but not limited to education, experience, skill sets, and geography.

Schedule

Expected to work 40 hours per week on‑site for a period of 10‑12 weeks between May and August.