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Breakthrough Energy Fellows Portfolio Job Board

Summer R&D Intern (2025)

RenewCO2

RenewCO2

Somerset County, NJ, USA
Posted on Oct 23, 2024

Compensation: $9,600 for 12 weeks


Position Description


RenewCO₂ is re-inventing chemical production using CO₂ emissions with a low-cost, high energy-efficiency, and carbon-negative electrochemical process. Our eCUT technology converts CO₂ into cost-competitive raw materials for plastics. We enable companies to meet emission reduction targets while producing sustainable materials at a profit.

We are inviting applications for a Summer Internship in Research and Development. This position is directed at evaluating the activity of CO2 electroreduction catalysts and the influence of process conditions on pilot performance. The candidate will receive first-hand laboratory experience in performing chemical analyses of products and tabulating and organizing large data sets, utilizing both Gas Chromatography (GC) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), fabricating electrodes, developing standards of procedures (SOPs), designing measurement devices, preparing technical updates for mentors and stakeholders, and/or conducting market research on in-demand products. This candidate will work with a seasoned team of professionals, including a highly experienced engineer as a mentor for the entire duration of the internship. This dynamic position offers an opportunity to participate in various sub-research groups within the laboratory while being able to work independently and autonomously on tasks and innovative R&D. Activities will be performed in-person at the company’s laboratory and office space in Somerset, NJ.

This 12-week internship is supported by various avenues of funding, including government agencies and private investments.

Candidates must be:

  • Undergraduate, Graduate, or degree holder wishing to pursue a STEM career.
  • Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident.
  • Have demonstrated STEM achievement and entrepreneurial interest.

Responsibilities

  • Support the development of a pilot process.
  • Perform electrochemical analysis.
  • Perform chemical analysis of products using GC and HPLC.
  • Perform mass and energy balance for the process.
  • Prepare technical updates for stakeholders.
  • Participate in market research.

Position Requirements

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills and demonstrated ability to work as part of a collaborative team.
  • Willingness to take responsibility and ownership of projects either individually or as part of a larger team.
  • Ability to thrive in an unstructured environment.
  • Problem solving with sound logical thinking and analysis.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Ability to contribute to a culture of excellence, inclusion, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
  • High level of enthusiasm and strong commitment to gain experience in carbon utilization process development.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge and hands-on experience in research in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science.
  • Knowledge and hands-on experience with Electrochemistry.
  • Experience with standard analytical chemistry tools such as GC, HPLC, and NMR.
  • Proficient in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.

Application

Submit the following documents by December 15th, 2024:

  • Resumé (1 Page)
  • Unofficial or official transcript
  • A cover letter containing your research objectives and career goals, qualifications, prior research training, research potential, and any relevant experience (500 words)
  • A diversity statement about how your experiences have contributed to your personal and professional growth: explain the distinct qualities and commitment you can bring to the table, especially regarding diversity in (science-based) entrepreneurship
  • Recommendation letter (preferably from a current or former research advisor)

As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, RenewCO2 is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, we encourage minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment. RenewCO2 considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, gender, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.