Intern, Nanoparticle Synthesis

Lila Sciences • Cambridge, MA

10d

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated intern to join our team in developing and optimizing automated nanoparticle synthesis workflows. The intern will plan and execute experiments across aqueous and non-aqueous chemistries, characterize the resulting materials, and use data-driven approaches to systematically improve synthesis outcomes. This is a hands-on role at the intersection of materials science, chemistry, and laboratory automation.

Requirements

• B.S. in Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, or a related field (in progress accepted), or an in-progress M.S./Ph.D. in the same fields.
• Familiarity with wet chemistry techniques and laboratory safety practices.
• Interest in nanoparticle synthesis and characterization methods.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to maintain detailed experimental records.
• Effective communicator who can work collaboratively in a research team setting.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience with nanoparticle or colloidal synthesis, including precursor preparation, reaction setup, and post-synthesis processing such as purification and ligand exchange.
• Experience with common characterization techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), or transmission electron microscopy (TEM), including sample preparation and data interpretation.
• Familiarity with design of experiments (DOE) or statistical analysis methods for systematically evaluating the effect of multiple variables on experimental outcomes.
• Familiarity with machine learning concepts and optimization methods such as Bayesian optimization (BO) for guiding experimental campaigns.
• Basic programming or scripting skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for data analysis, visualization, and workflow automation.
• Experience with laboratory automation, liquid handling systems, or robotic platforms used in high-throughput experimentation.
• Comfort working with both aqueous and organic solvent-based chemistries, including handling of air-sensitive or moisture-sensitive reagents using Schlenk line or glovebox techniques.

Responsibilities

• Plan and Optimize Experiments. Design and run iterative nanoparticle synthesis experiments using manual and automated platforms, using results from each round to guide the next and improve target properties.
• Work Across Chemistries. Develop and adapt synthesis protocols for both aqueous and non-aqueous nanoparticle systems.
• Characterize Materials. Collect and analyze characterization data to assess nanoparticle quality and track progress toward target specifications.
• Explore Synthesis Parameters. Systematically vary reaction conditions to understand how they affect nanoparticle synthesis outcomes.
• Document and Share Results. Maintain organized records of experiments and findings to support ongoing and future research efforts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern