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

What you'd do

• 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.

What they want

• 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
• Preferred Qualification: 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
• The candidate 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.
• The candidate is expected to be available 40 hours a week for a period of 10-12 weeks between the months of May and August.
• Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Polymer Science/Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science or related fields

About Momentive

Momentive is a premier global advanced materials company with a cutting-edge focus on silicones and specialty products. We deliver solutions designed to help propel our customer’s products forward—products that have a profound impact on all aspects of life, around the clock and from living rooms to outer space. With every innovation, Momentive creates a more sustainable future.