Summer 2026 Intern - Surface Science & Analytical Research
About The Position
WD, the premiere producer of hard disk drives, is seeking an intern to work in our Surface Science Group. The primary purpose of our work is to support the development and manufacture of the next generation hard drive technology. Due to the remarkably small size scale of magnetic bits in today's hard drives, surface analysis techniques such as Time-of-Flight-Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (TOF-SIMS), Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (ESCA/XPS) are routinely used to assist in problem solving and development efforts. The candidate will work with and learn from experienced materials scientists and will work hands on with the Time of Flighty- Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (TOF-SIMS) engineers to evaluate drive components. The scope of the work will involve failure analysis, component analysis, and process qualifications.
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a PhD program in Materials Science, Physics, Analytical Chemistry, or other related science or engineering disciplines.
- Experience with TOF-SIMS is a plus.
- A strong background in inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry and/or mass spectroscopy preferred.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and the desire to work in a team environment are essential.
- The candidate will join a team of seven surface analysts working on the next generation of WD's storage technology.
- This position is located in our world-class Analytical Sciences Laboratory in San Jose, California.
Benefits
- paid vacation time
- paid sick leave
- medical/dental/vision insurance
- life, accident and disability insurance
- tax-advantaged flexible spending and health savings accounts
- employee assistance program
- other voluntary benefit programs such as supplemental life and AD&D, legal plan, pet insurance, critical illness, accident and hospital indemnity
- tuition reimbursement
- transit
- the Applause Program
- employee stock purchase plan
- the WD Savings 401(k) Plan
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
Number of Employees
1-10 employees
