Experimental Materials Intern – Summer 2026

Analytical Mechanics Associates•Mountain View, CA

1d•$30 - $34•Onsite

About The Position

Position Overview Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is seeking three highly motivated and detail-oriented Experimental Materials Interns for Summer 2026. These positions support NASA under the Aircraft Systems and Spaceflight Engineering Support Services (ASSESS) contract at NASA Ames Research Center (ARC) in Moffett Field, CA. Interns will work on-site within the Thermal Protection Materials (TSM) Branch, part of the Entry Systems and Technology Division at NASA ARC. Each selected candidate will participate in a 10‑week, primarily hands-on research project from June 1 to August 7, 2026, contributing directly to materials research relevant to NASA’s thermal protection systems. Summer 2026 Research Project Opportunities Applicants will be considered for one or more of the following projects. Candidates should indicate their preferred project(s) during the application process. Improvements in Catalycity, Compliance, and Manufacturability of Thermal Coatings for Hypersonic Vehicles (Export controlled, open to US citizens and permanent residents only) The TSM Branch has developed MERINO‑R, a new reusable oxide‑blanket thermal protection system designed to meet emerging needs for low‑cost, rapidly producible, and environmentally friendly TPS (Thermal Protection Systems) solutions for hypersonic and commercial space vehicles. Completing this system requires developing a flexible, low‑catalycity coating capable of enduring repeated exposure to extreme temperatures. Work will involve designing, fabricating, applying, and documenting coating integration processes for MERINO‑R substrates. Calibration Drift in Thermal Sensing Elements in Hypersonic Entry Environments Hypersonic flight environments expose materials to extreme temperatures, pressures, and chemically nonequilibrium flows, all of which can alter the behavior of commonly used thermocouples. This project examines the material and chemical microstructure of hypersonic‑grade thermocouples to understand how harsh environments influence stability and calibration. Methods include microscopy, SEM analysis, and calibration testing to characterize material changes and identify mechanisms of calibration drift. ARCTRON Diagnostics and Automation The intern will support various diagnostic and automation tasks at the ARCTRON facility, which features a multi-gas, multi-heat source plasma chamber used for high-temperature catalycity measurements, model validation, and TPS material down-selection. Responsibilities include laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), laser absorption spectroscopy, optical emission spectroscopy, embedded thermocouples, pressure sensors, digital control of optical stages, cameras, sting arms, power supplies, and temperature and pressure interlocks. Position Details Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 7, 2026) Location: NASA Ames Research Center (on-site attendance required) Compensation: $29.50/hr – $33.50/hr, commensurate with education level Number of Positions: 3

Requirements

Currently pursuing a degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field (M.S. or Ph.D. preferred; upper‑division B.S. students considered)
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
For some positions: ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
Ability to work on-site at NASA Ames Research Center for the full internship duration
Must be currently authorized to work in the United States (e.g., F-1 visa holders eligible; no visa sponsorship available)
Applicants must not be citizens or birth nationals of countries on NASA’s designated country list
Some projects might require U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (due to export control requirements)

Nice To Haves

Experience with materials characterization methods such as SEM, optical microscopy, XRD, and/or mechanical testing
Sample preparation for cross‑sectional microscopy and powder/fibrous materials
Knowledge of ceramic, porous, or insulating material structure–processing relationships
Familiarity with plasma facilities and optical diagnostics, especially emission spectroscopy
Familiarity with machining tools and techniques
Experience with materials testing in extreme-environment conditions
Understanding of standard laboratory procedures and safety practices

Responsibilities

Materials processing and fabrication
Materials characterization (microstructural, optical, thermal, and mechanical)
Conducting focused research over the 10‑week internship period
Regular verbal and written progress updates to a research mentor
Preparing and delivering a final presentation to the division at the conclusion of the project