Materials Science & Chemistry R&D Intern
About the Position
Firomar is seeking a motivated Materials Science & Chemistry R&D Intern to support a summer research project focused on advanced thermal insulation materials and expandable polystyrene (EPS) foam systems.
The intern will assist with the development and evaluation of silica aerogel-coated EPS beads, including material preparation, laboratory testing, thermal performance characterization, and process development. This is a hands-on research and development opportunity ideal for students interested in materials innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable building technologies.
The internship will be based primarily at the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator in downtown Binghamton, with occasional visits to Firomar's manufacturing facility.
Areas of Interest
This position is well suited for students pursuing:
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Polymer Science
- Physics
- Clean Energy Technologies
- Building Materials & Building Envelope Systems
Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation and testing of silica aerogel-coated EPS materials
- Conduct laboratory experiments involving expandable polystyrene (EPS) beads and thermal insulation systems
- Collect, analyze, and document experimental data, including density, expansion behavior, fusion quality, and thermal performance
- Prepare material formulations and maintain detailed laboratory records
- Support thermal imaging and insulation performance evaluations
- Assist with fabrication of small-scale testing fixtures and prototype equipment
- Research relevant materials science, chemistry, and thermal insulation literature
- Participate in troubleshooting, process development, and experimental planning with Firomar engineering staff
- Prepare technical summaries, reports, and presentations of research findings
Preferred Qualifications
- Current undergraduate or graduate student in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related STEM discipline
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Interest in laboratory research, product development, and manufacturing R&D
- Comfortable working with laboratory equipment and prototype systems
- Basic understanding of materials characterization, polymers, thermodynamics, or heat transfer
- Experience with CAD software, thermal imaging, microscopy, or laboratory instrumentation is a plus but not required
Internship Details
Position Type: Paid Internship
Duration: 10 Weeks (Summer 2026)
Schedule: Full-Time (Approximately 40 Hours per Week)
Compensation: $17.00 per Hour
Location:
Koffman Southern Tier Incubator
120 Hawley Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
Additional Location:
Firomar Facility
22 Charles Street
Binghamton, NY 13905