Chemistry Internship, Summer 2025

RTI International seeks a prospect for the Chemistry Internship within the Technology Advancement & Commercialization (TAC) business unit.

This internship is a contract position. The employment contract is administered by Greene Resources Powered by Array, RTI's supplemental staffing partner.

The Technology and Commercialization Division (TAC) at RTI International develops technologies that span the research and development gap from the university to industry scale. The successful candidate will become part of an experienced team to support the development and advancement of several existing carbon capture and utilization technologies. The technology areas currently include lab- and bench- scale CO2 capture, lab- and bench-scale CO2 conversion, solvent process optimization, sorbent process design, and membrane design for gas separations.

TAC hosts internships for mechanical and chemical engineering students. The internships offers R&D activities on an array of energy and environmental technology projects. Projects range in scale from bench to pilot and are performed in a variety of testing environments. The intern must be knowledgeable in problem solving techniques, equipment selection, and control systems. Day-to-day duties will involve hands-on responsibility to: carry out experimental measurements; run various laboratory tests; collect, analyze and summarize technical data from these measurements and tests; maintain accurate records; and provide laboratory support for various R&D projects. The intern will also support the team to conceptualize, design, plan and implement innovative technologies that enable new and competitive processes. The work provides exposure to the latest technologies and will be conducted with teams comprised of experienced scientists and engineers.

Learning Objectives:

Develop an understanding of the R&D process for novel technologies that span different scales of technology development ranging from concept through to bench and prototype-scale development, and in some cases pre-commercial demonstration; and to be involved in and contribute to development of innovative solutions to carbon capture and gas separations.

• Collect, analyze, and summarize technical data and background information.
• Contribute to the design of test systems at the bench and pilot scale; including specifying equipment, sizing lines, developing P&IDs, developing drawings, and working with vendors
• Operation of small and medium size process equipment in the lab and bench-scale.
• Assist in the design/development of computer spreadsheets and databases to process and analyze data and summarize/present information.
• Demonstrate increasing proficiency with written and verbal communication skills.
• Contribute to and/or prepare portions of technical memoranda, reports, and presentations.
• Work individually or as part of a project team.
• Review and proof one's own work for accuracy and completeness.
• Maintain files and laboratory notes to document work performed, including calculations, spreadsheets, memoranda, references, reviewer comments, etc.
• Take joint responsibility for safety of personnel through review of equipment and protocols for safety hazards with the team.

RTI's Internship Program emphasizes experiential and mentored learning experiences. Interns are exposed to the institute's mission to improve the human condition through projects, professional development trainings, and networking. Program participants have opportunities to engage with staff and fellow interns virtually and in-person. Each summer, interns are encouraged to participate in RTI's annual internship showcase. A two-day hybrid event, the end-of-summer celebration showcases internship experiences and achievements. Come and grow with us!

Additional Information

This paid full-time internship will take place from May 2025 through August 2025. The internship requires onsite work at our RTP, NC headquarters and a maximum commitment of 40 hours per week. Hours are flexible during business hours, Monday through Friday.

• Legally authorized to work in the United States and should not require now, or in the future, sponsorship for employment visa status
• Current undergraduate student pursuing an undergraduate degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering or related field
• Flexibility to work in an R&D facility at the RTI Headquarters in RTP, NC
• Commitment to working safely at all times

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in laboratory work is a plus
• Demonstrated ability in the design and fabrication of equipment or systems is a plus
• Demonstrated CAD/SolidWorks capabilities are a plus
• Demonstrated ability to convert P&ID's to 3-D system drawings as well as develop drawings of vessels for fabrication is a plus
• Demonstrated working with equipment vendors is a plus

As a global employer of choice, RTI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace and the communities and markets where we serve our mission. We value diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective and welcome applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, creed, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable discrimination laws or RTI policy.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Further information is available here.

RTI International is an independent, nonprofit research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach and one that integrates expertise across the social and laboratory sciences, engineering, and international development. We believe in the promise of science, and we are inspired every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses around the world. For more information, visit www.rti.org.