R&D Intern - PVC

Carlisle Construction Materials • Carlisle, PA

25d • Onsite

About The Position

The PVC R&D Intern will support ongoing research and development efforts to
improve the processing, formulation, and material performance of PVC roofing
compounds. This position provides hands-on experience in polymer
characterization, rheological analysis, and formulation optimization while
contributing to process efficiency and sustainability initiatives. The intern
will work under the supervision of R&D scientists to design and execute
laboratory studies that connect polymer structure, processing behavior, and
membrane properties.

Requirements

• Pursuing an M.S. or Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field
• Strong academic foundation in polymer chemistry, rheology, and material characterization
• Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, Origin, or equivalent)
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently or within a cross-functional team
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Laboratory experience in polymer compounding is preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist in process–structure–property relationship studies using advanced rheological (DMA) and analytical (TGA, DSC, FTIR) techniques
• Conduct rheological characterization to evaluate gelation behavior and plasticizer interaction in PVC systems
• Support formulation and compounding studies to assess how material variables influence gelation, extrusion, and membrane performance
• Perform comparative polymer analyses in terms of different molecular weight PVC resin and identify potential material replacements
• Assist in data organization and database development of analytical and physical property information to support long-term research initiatives
• Document experimental work, analyze results, and prepare concise technical summaries for project reviews

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees