Intern, Materials Characterization

The Materials Characterization Intern will support the FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) team in Sunnyvale by contributing to analytical interpretation, data organization, and technical documentation activities. This role provides hands-on exposure to real-world materials analysis workflows within a regulated, client-facing laboratory environment.

The intern will work closely with scientists and engineers to review analytical datasets, interpret experimental results, and contribute to internal and external reporting. This role is ideal for students interested in analytical chemistry, materials science, and technical communication.

Key project work includes synthesizing information from prior reports, organizing raw and processed data, and assisting in the preparation of technical summaries and application notes.

Work Location & Relocation

Relocation assistance is not available for this position. Candidates must be able to reliably commute to the Sunnyvale, CA lab.

Regulatory & Work Authorization Requirements

This position is subject to ITAR regulations. Employment is limited to individuals who qualify as a U.S. Person, including:

• U.S. Citizen
• U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder)
• Asylee or refugee

Key Responsibilities

• Review and interpret existing analytical datasets and prior reports
• Organize and maintain raw and processed experimental data
• Draft technical summaries and contribute to analytical reports and application notes
• Support literature reviews to strengthen scientific narratives
• Assist in data traceability and documentation practices
• Observe and support laboratory workflows, including FTIR-based organic analysis
• Collaborate with scientists on small, well-defined assignments
• Contribute to improving documentation clarity and reporting efficiency

Learning & Development Opportunities

Initial Training (First 2 Weeks):

• Overview of materials characterization workflows and FTIR analysis
• Introduction to laboratory SOPs, quality systems, and documentation standards
• Training on data organization, reporting expectations, and scientific communication

Ongoing Development:

• Shadowing scientists to understand analytical workflows end-to-end
• Hands-on experience reviewing datasets and drafting summaries
• Exposure to applied research topics such as battery materials and microplastics
• Participation in structured, phase-based learning including:
  • Data review and interpretation
  • Technical writing and documentation
  • Application note development
  • Lab workflow observation and participation

The intern will gain:

• Practical experience interpreting analytical chemistry data
• Strong technical writing and scientific communication skills
• Understanding of regulated lab environments and quality expectations
• Exposure to real client-driven materials problems and solutions

Preferred fields of study:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Chemistry or Analytical Chemistry
• Chemical Engineering
• Physics
• Other related science or engineering disciplines

Preferred qualifications and attributes:

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Interest in analytical data interpretation and materials analysis
• Ability to communicate scientific concepts clearly in writing
• Proficiency with Microsoft tools (Excel, PowerPoint; Copilot a plus)
• Interest in technical writing and reporting
• Critical thinking and problem-solving mindset
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Initiative and willingness to learn in a lab environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods (80% of time)
• Ability to operate a computer and lab equipment for 4+ hours
• Manual dexterity to handle small and delicate samples
• Close visual acuity (with or without correction)
• Ability to wear required PPE (safety glasses, lab coat, etc.)
• Ability to move items up to 50 lbs when needed

Base salary range: $21-26/per hour based on experience. 

 

Supervision Structure:

• Daily supervision by a Principal Scientist
• Oversight by senior leadership within Materials Characterization
• Regular feedback and progress check-ins

The internship concludes with a final presentation highlighting accomplishments, learning outcomes, and contributions.

What It’s Like to Work Here:

• Teamwork: be inspired by your leaders, be encouraged by your teammates, and be supported in all parts of your journey while you work with us.

• Learning & Development: take on career development programs and goal setting to create big possibilities for your career and life. Develop within the company; be mentored and grow as a leader.

• Diversity & Authenticity: we work hard to embrace diversity and inclusion and encourage everyone to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Eurofins EAG Laboratories is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all of our employment practices. Eurofins EAG Laboratories recruits, hires, trains, promotes and administers all employment-related matters based on an individual's qualifications, abilities, and efforts.  Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, military and/or protected veteran status, and/or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.    

If you enjoy being immersed in science or engineering, tackling problems head-on, finding solutions through teamwork, and taking pride in accomplishments, join us today! Check out our other opportunities: www.eag.com/about/careers/ 

Eurofins USA Material Sciences is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

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Eurofins USA Material Sciences is a Disabled and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity employer.