Summer 2026 Graduate (MS/PhD) R&D Intern - Hardcoat Research and Development
: Job Details :

Summer 2026 Graduate (MS/PhD) R&D Intern - Hardcoat Research and Development

As a Hardcoat R&D Intern, you will help shape the future of advanced coatings by supporting new product innovation. You will investigate formulation and processing impacts, analyze performance data, and contribute to the digitization of historical researchall while collaborating with experienced scientists to solve real-world challenges.

Responsibilities Include:

Investigate the effect of formulation and processing changes on hardcoat performance, particularly with respect to coating performance failures for thermal cure hardcoat systems on polycarbonate or metal substrates. Document and standardize Hardcoat developmental data.

• Analyze the effect of chemistry and process parameters on chemical resistance, adhesion and cracking.
• Investigate effects of additives to improve adhesion to wider range of substrate types.
• Investigate effects of pigments and matte agents on appearance and performance.
• Develop in-house test methods of importance to Consumer/Industrial space.
• Improve performance of metal protection hardcoats
• Improve anti-fingerprint performance of hardcoats.

#2: Analysis/Digitization/Standardization of Hardcoat Historical Database and Long Term Weathering Datasets.

• Review, identify and archive critical documents from historical paper files.
• Analyze ongoing historical long term weathering studies to make recommendations for commercialization.

Qualifications:

The following are required for the role:

• Pursuing a graduate (MS/PhD) degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related technical field.
• Comfortable working in a wet chemistry lab and also with performing physical property testing and characterization.

Program Qualifications:

• The candidate must be actively enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at the time of application and for at least one semester following the conclusion of the internship.
• The candidate is expected to be available 40 hours a week for a period of 10-12 weeks between the months of May and August.

The following qualifications are preferred:

• Experience with coating processes and test methods is desired.
• Experience with polymer chemistry and mechanical property testing on polymeric systems is desired.
• Experience with statistical data analysis is desired.
• Experience with excel and data storage platforms (Sharepoint).

Students enrolled in a Graduate degree level program are eligible to receive a higher rate than the range listed below. Master's rate: $32/hr; PhD rate: $37/hr.

What We Offer:

Base Pay Range: $22.00 - $26.00

The base salary offered is determined by factors including but not limited to education, experience, skill sets, and geography. If you are interested in this position, we'd ask that you apply! Join our Momentive team to open a bright future.

A t Momentive, we value your well-being and offer competitive total rewards and development programs. Our inclusive culture fosters a strong sense of belonging and provides diverse career opportunities to help you unleash your full potential. Together, through innovative problem-solving and collaboration, we strive to create sustainable solutions that make a meaningful impact.

About Us:

Momentive is a premier global advanced materials company with a cutting-edge focus on silicones and specialty products. We deliver solutions designed to help propel our customer's products forwardproducts that have a profound impact on all aspects of life, around the clock and from living rooms to outer space. With every innovation, Momentive creates a more sustainable future. Our vast product portfolio is made up of advanced silicones and specialty solutions that play an essential role in driving performance across a multitude of industries, including agriculture, automotive, aerospace, electronics, energy, healthcare, personal care, consumer products, building and construction, and more. Momentive believes a diverse workforce empowers our people, strengthens our business, and contributes to a sustainable world. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any characteristic protected by law. To be considered for this position candidates are required to submit an application for employment and be of legal working age as defined by local law. An offer may be conditioned upon the successful completion of pre-employment conditions, as applicable, and subject to applicable laws and regulations. Note to third parties: Momentive is not seeking or accepting any unsolicited assistance from search and selection firms or employment agencies at this time.