USGS Development of PPDQ; Tire Wear Particle Heat Map Puget Sound Region

Job Description

Internship opportunity with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) located in Tacoma, Washington. The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and time frames relevant to decision makers.

Tires contain the preservative chemical 6

PPD, which slows their degradation. As tires wear, tiny particles are generated that react with oxygen to form 6

PPD quinone (6

PPDQ). During rainfall, this compound can be transported from road surfaces into nearby waterways, where it has been shown to harm sensitive fish species. The internship focuses on investigating the occurrence and concentration of 6

PPDQ streams that drain to Puget Sound and developing a refined “heat” index specific to Puget Sound using local high‑resolution geospatial datasets.

• Organize and compile raster and vector datasets representing potential sources of 6
  
  PPDQ.
• Develop and refine a “heat” index to indicate the likelihood of high 6
  
  PPDQ concentrations.
• Create data visualizations and geospatial maps to communicate findings.
• Assist in developing a preliminary weighting scheme for the heat index.
• Collaborate with USGS scientists and participate in monthly team meetings.
• Meet weekly with the mentor to review progress and troubleshoot project issues.

Acquire skills in organizing and visualizing vector and raster datasets, develop science communication through interactive mapping resources, and potentially publish an ArcGIS Online web application or Story Map. Gain experience working with a research group and managing a summer research plan.

Kristina Hopkins (khopkins)

June 15, 2026 (flexible based on availability)

10 weeks, with potential renewal contingent on funding and recommendation.

Full time.

Rate varies; will be disclosed in the offer.

Available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals meeting valid immigration status criteria. Candidates should refer to the program guidelines for non‑U.S. citizen eligibility.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field; degree must have been received within the past four years or expected by June 1, 2029.
• Disciplines:
  Chemistry and Materials Sciences:
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Bio‑inorganic Chemistry
  • Bio‑organic Chemistry
  • Biophysical Chemistry
  • Chemistry (General)
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Materials Sciences
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Polymer Chemistry
  • Theoretical Chemistry
• Communications and Graphics Design
• Computer, Information, and Data Sciences
• Earth and Geosciences
• Engineering
• Environmental and Marine Sciences
• Life Health and Medical Sciences
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Physics
• Science & Engineering‑related disciplines

Rachel (contact details available on the official posting)