Post-Undergraduate Intern (Year-Round) Chemist

NREL • Golden, CO

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Bioenergy Science and Technology (BEST) directorate within the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) performs a full range of research from exploring biomass at the molecular level through biorefinery process optimization to bring biofuels and bio-products to market. The directorate’s research encompasses multiple areas including, biochemical processes, synthesis, processing, analysis, and characterization. Our research group is focused on developing biological and chemical syntheses for cost-effective production of sustainable polymers and chemicals. Our team brings together a wide range of technical expertise and global experience unified by a passionate drive to increase the technoeconomic feasibility for global adoption of bio-based or recyclable polymers. Interdisciplinary collaboration and a relentless pursuit of advancing understanding at the intersection of fundamental science and industrial application is paramount to every member of our team. This internship position is hiring for full-time work on-site with NLR’s Polymer Science and Engineering group starting in May or June of 2026. As a year-round internship, the ideal candidate will be available for a one-year internship commitment, immediately post-undergraduate completion. This intern will provide researchers within our group the support necessary to safely achieve their cutting-edge research, particularly the synthesis of novel sustainable polymers, or deconstruction of existing polymers. The successful candidate will perform hands-on tasks and experimentation in a laboratory setting including: benchtop wet chemistry air-free chemical synthesis polymer synthesis and characterization chemical purification reinforced composite fabrication The ability to conduct laboratory experiments with minimal supervision, with the utmost regard to safety is required. Adaptability and an aptitude for learning are critical in this role. This is an excellent opportunity for a student invested in the NLR mission who desires relevant laboratory experience in preparation for graduate school or a career in the chemical industry.

Requirements

• Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average.
• Undergraduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited institution.
• Post Undergraduate: Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year.
• Graduate: Must be enrolled as a full-time student in a master’s degree program from an accredited institution.
• Post Graduate: Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months. Eligible for an internship period of up to one year.
• Graduate + PhD: Completed master’s degree and enrolled as PhD student from an accredited institution.
• Please Note: Applicants are responsible for uploading official or unofficial school transcripts, as part of the application process.
• If selected for position, a letter of recommendation will be required as part of the hiring process.
• Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
• Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
• Demonstrated general laboratory experience and exposure to analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and/or biochemistry
• Attention to detail, a fast learner, and have excellent time management skills
• Work well with a variety of personality types with various levels of technical backgrounds
• Demonstrated experience following Standard Lab Safety Procedures and setting a safe example
• Be willing to take direction and work independently to support team goals

Nice To Haves

• Candidates are expected to have completed a bachelor’s degree (with a preferred degree in Chemistry) in May or June of 2026, and begin an in-person, full-time internship for a 1-year commitment post-graduation.

Responsibilities

• benchtop wet chemistry
• air-free chemical synthesis
• polymer synthesis and characterization
• chemical purification
• reinforced composite fabrication

Benefits

• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match
• sick leave (where required by law)
• NLR employees may be eligible for, but are not guaranteed, performance-, merit-, and achievement- based awards that include a monetary component.
• Some positions may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees