Chemical Engineering ASPIRE Undergraduate Intern

Chemical Engineering ASPIRE Undergraduate Intern Job Description

The Nuclear Detection and Actinide Separations group at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) is seeking a highly motivated post-baccalaureate researcher to join our team. This position offers a unique opportunity for a recent chemistry graduate to contribute to fundamental research in laser spectroscopy and its application to uranium hexafluoride (uf6) analysis.

In this critical role, you will analyze complex spectroscopic data generated from cutting-edge laser experiments involving uf6. This research directly supports the Department of Energy's office of Environmental Management (DOE-EM) missions by advancing environmental cleanup and long-term waste management, and the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) missions in nuclear nonproliferation and national security by enhancing radiation detection and threat mitigation. Uf6 is a key compound in uranium enrichment, and accurate analysis of its isotopic ratios and behavior is critical for non-proliferation efforts and maintaining the nation's nuclear deterrent.

SRNL is the nation's leading research and development center.

• Process, analyze, and interpret large datasets from various laser spectroscopy techniques (e.g., FTIR, LIBS, atomic beam laser absorption spectroscopy) applied to uf6 and related uranium compounds.
• Utilize and develop chemo metric methods to identify reaction intermediates and understand reaction pathways, such as the hydrolysis of uf6, which is relevant to environmental management.
• Contribute to the characterization of gaseous uf6 plasma behavior and the effects of laser parameters on spectral characteristics, aiding in the development of advanced detection capabilities.
• Collaborate with a team of scientists and engineers on experimental design and data acquisition.
• Present research findings at group meetings and contribute to publications.

Successful candidates will:

• Have educational or laboratory research experience
• Think critically, analyze data, and integrate these skills into effective experimental design, execution, and reporting
• Develop partnerships with internal team members of different backgrounds
• Effectively communicate (verbal & written) technical results
• Work safely with particular attention to quality. Comply with all policies and standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Be pursuing a undergraduate degree in chemical engineering or a related field
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.4 or higher and submit a transcript prior to hiring

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on research experience in a chemical laboratory

This position will require selected candidate to be able to obtain a DOE Security Clearance. BSRA is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, criminal records, and employment history, and education verifications. Positions with BSRA require applicants to have the ability to obtain and maintain a DOE L or Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

Factors such as pre-employment background review results, dual citizenship status, and unpaid and/or unfiled taxes may impact your ability to obtain a security clearance. This list of factors is not exhaustive; pre-employment information and security clearance requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

• Job Identification 1997
• Job Category Engineering and Science
• Posting Date 03/12/2026, 08:21 PM
• Apply Before 04/02/2026, 04:00 AM
• Degree Level Four Years College
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations Savannah River National Laboratory
• Job Location Onsite
• Work Schedule AA:
  Straight Days (Mon-Fri), 9 Hours