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Material Science Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

E Logic

Junior Naval Architect

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$70K/yr

... Materials Science, or Industrial Engineering. * No professional experience required; 3+ years of exposure or internship experience is preferred. Important Notice: This role is part of a proposal for ...

Klockner Pentaplast

Intern - Engineering

Rural Retreat, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Summer Internship 2026 - Get hands on experience with a global company! Klockner Pentaplast is a ... Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Information Technology? Or ...

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Material Science Internship information

What is a Material Science Internship?

A Material Science Internship is a temporary position, usually for students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience in the field of materials science. Interns work under the supervision of professionals to learn about the properties, development, and testing of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. These internships often involve laboratory work, research projects, and technical reporting. The goal is to gain practical skills and industry knowledge that will be valuable for a future career in material science or related fields.

What types of projects or tasks are typically assigned to material science interns?

Material science interns often work on hands-on projects such as conducting material characterization tests, analyzing data from experiments, and assisting with the development or improvement of new materials. You may collaborate closely with research scientists and engineers, participate in lab meetings, and help document findings. Interns are also commonly involved in literature reviews and may have opportunities to contribute to technical reports or presentations. This role provides valuable exposure to real-world research and development processes within a multidisciplinary team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Material Science Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Material Science Intern, you need a solid grounding in materials engineering, chemistry, and physics, typically gained through coursework in a relevant undergraduate program. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD), and data analysis software like MATLAB or Python is often expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help interns contribute to research and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for successfully supporting research projects, ensuring accurate results, and gaining valuable industry experience.

What is the difference between Material Science Internship vs Materials Engineer?

AspectMaterial Science InternshipMaterials Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in materials science, engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in materials science, metallurgical engineering, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, or corporate R&D departments, often temporary or project-basedDesign, develop, and test materials in industrial or manufacturing settings, often full-time
Industry UsageInternship programs in aerospace, automotive, electronics, and research institutionsFull-time roles in similar industries, focusing on product development and quality control

While a Material Science Internship provides hands-on experience and exposure to the field, a Materials Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and improving materials in industrial settings. Internships are ideal for gaining initial industry insight, whereas engineers lead ongoing projects and innovations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Material Science jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Material Science jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Material Science Internship jobs in Virginia? For Material Science Internship jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Science Internship jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Material Science Internship jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Material Science Internship jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Material Science Internship job openings:
Material Science Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Science Internship job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, 70% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Potomac Institute Internship Program (Fall Semester Due Date: July 31, 2026)

Potomac Institute for Policy Studies

Arlington, VA • On-site

Internship

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Overview:
The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an independent, 501(c)(3), nonprofit science and technology policy think tank that has a robust and enduring internship program. Excellence in research and objective analysis is the motto for the program. The Potomac Institute Internship Program (for undergraduate, graduate, or recently graduated students) hosts scholars with a variety of academic backgrounds that relate to the science, technology, and national security missions of the Institute. The Institute strives to provide a versatile experience for each internship participant. Interns will be assigned to provide direct support to staff, Senior Fellows, and/or academic programs within PIPS. Some unique qualities of the program are acknowledgements in publications, networking, academic credit, as well as access to in-house seminars, events, and conferences.
Internship Description:
Interns have the opportunity to conduct fast-paced research on Institute mission areas. You will learn and develop valuable professional skills to improve your research, writing, and analysis that are applicable across career fields. You will coordinate your schedule with your assigned scholar and are expected to be at the Institute two days per week. Interns will work 16-20 hours per week during the fall/spring and 28-32 hours per week during the summer. The internship typically lasts the duration of an academic semester, but exceptions can be made in certain circumstances.
Intern Duties:
Conducting research as directed; Compiling bibliographies; Collecting and assembling data; Copy editing and proofreading; Event planning and support; Attending Congressional hearings and other think tank events; As well as providing a full range of administrative support. (estimated 50% research, 50% administrative support)
Requirements:
3.5 or higher GPA with a background or interest in political science, national security, defense, science and technology, economics, international affairs, public policy, and law are preferred, though others accepted. Candidates should have relevant research, writing, and editing experience, excellent organization and communication skills, strong MS Office skills, and the ability to prioritize a heavy workload.
Must be a US Citizen and able to pass a background investigation in order to obtain a security clearance.
Deadlines:
This is a highly competitive and sought after position. Failure to submit the materials listed below will result in disqualification from moving to the next round. Failure to submit an application by the deadline will result in disqualification.
Complete application packages should be sent by the following deadlines:
Spring- (January to May) October 13
Summer- (May to September) March 16
Fall- (September to December) July 31
Applicants will need:
1. A letter of interest. In your letter, be sure to reference relevant Institute research areas and preferred scholar assignment.
2. Current resume
3. One to two-page writing sample
4. Unofficial transcript
5. Two (2) letters of recommendation. This does not mean include a references page.
Academic Credit:
We are more than happy to assist students with receiving academic credit through their respected Institution upon successful completion of the internship. Some educational institutions require prior approval before the start of an internship for academic credit. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position.
This position complies with the US Department of Labor and the Fair Labor Standard Act.

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