Undergraduate Technical Intern - EMSL

Undergraduate Research Assistant Position

The Environmental Molecular Sciences Division seeks an energetic undergraduate-level part-time intern to fill a cutting-edge undergraduate research assistant position that supports current field campaigns sponsored by the Department of Energy (DOE). The successful candidate will be mentored by several EMSL scientists to work in the EMSL User Facility and engage in research on a DOE project in coordination with the EMSL User Facility and the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) partners.

The applicant will be expected to support field campaigns by organizing supplies, maintaining instruments for particle sample collection, preparing the sampling device (e.g., impactors and filters), cataloging the field samples, and quality checking the field samples using electron and optical microscopy. This position will provide an opportunity to work with multiple teams of scientists and build professional networks inside and outside of PNNL.

The position will provide the opportunity to use many advanced tools available within EMSL to elucidate atmospheric aerosol particles. Applicants with backgrounds in chemistry, physics, engineering, and environmental science are desired. Prior experience in operating research-grade instruments and data analysis is preferred. The candidate should demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills. The position also offers opportunities to contribute to peer-reviewed manuscript preparation and publication.

This is a year-round position and onsite in Richland, Washington.

• Candidates must have a high school diploma /GED or higher
• Candidates must be degree-seeking undergraduate students enrolled at an accredited college or university
• Candidates must be taking at least 6 credit hours and have an overall cumulative GPA of 2.50.

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Environmental Science, Atmospheric Science, or a related field; cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher preferred.
• Hands-on experience in a chemistry lab, including familiarity with basic lab tools and techniques.
• Willingness and ability to learn and adapt to new analytical instruments and methods.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute research tasks independently, with initiative in supporting project deliverables such as manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across a multidisciplinary team of scientists and technical staff.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with Electron Microscopy techniques is a plus.
• Experience with relevant software tools (please specify, e.g., ImageJ, Origin Lab, etc.) is a plus.
• Programming experience in MATLAB and/or Python is a plus.