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Research Development Intern Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

CARLISLE COMPANIES

R&D Intern

Crossfield, AB

Job Summary The Research Intern will support the commissioning, operation, and development of a laboratory-scale polymerization reactor. The intern will assist with experimental planning, raw ...

Propra

Business Development Internship

Calgary, AB · On-site

As a Business Development Intern, you will play a key role in supporting revenue growth and scaling ... Conduct market research to identify target accounts, key decision-makers, and emerging ...

TalentSphere

Intern Architect

Calgary, AB

CA$60K/yr

Contribute to concept development, space planning, and the production of detailed construction ... Research building materials, products, systems, and current industry trends to support project work.

Canadian Natural

Tax Student

Calgary, AB

... Research and Experimental Development tax credit claims * Assist in the completion of sales tax ... Opportunities to partake in initiatives such as the Intern Social Committee Check out our ...

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Research Development Intern information

What does a research development intern do?

A Research Development Intern supports research projects by assisting with tasks such as literature reviews, data collection, data analysis, and preparing reports or presentations. They often work under the supervision of senior researchers and may help develop research proposals, organize project materials, and contribute to ongoing studies. This role is designed to give interns hands-on experience in the research process and to develop their analytical and organizational skills. The specific duties can vary depending on the field and the organization's focus.

What types of projects does a research development intern work on, and how is mentorship typically provided?

As a Research Development Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects ranging from literature reviews and data analysis to assisting with grant proposals and contributing to experimental design. Typically, you'll work closely with senior researchers or project leads who provide regular guidance and feedback through one-on-one meetings and collaborative team sessions. Mentorship is often structured, with opportunities to shadow experienced team members, participate in lab meetings, and receive support on career development. This collaborative environment helps interns build both technical and professional skills while making meaningful contributions to ongoing research initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research development intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Development Intern, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in research methodologies, typically supported by enrollment in or completion of a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and citation management tools is often expected. Excellent written and verbal communication, adaptability, and collaboration skills help you effectively share insights and work within diverse teams. These abilities are essential for producing high-quality research, supporting project goals, and contributing to innovative solutions.

What is the difference between Research Development Intern vs Research Associate?

AspectResearch Development InternResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in labs or research centersFull-time position, often in labs, universities, or industry
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, biotech companiesResearch institutions, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research rolesMore experienced, responsible for independent research

The Research Development Intern role is typically an entry-level position for students or recent graduates gaining research experience. In contrast, a Research Associate usually holds a degree and performs more independent research responsibilities. Interns focus on learning and supporting projects, while Associates lead experiments and analyze data.

Research Development Intern jobs near you

R&D Intern

CARLISLE COMPANIES

Crossfield, AB

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About Us:
At Plasti-Fab, a Carlisle Company, we've been supporting sustainable building for over 50 years with high-quality insulation solutions used in commercial, residential, and infrastructure construction across North America. Learn more about our companyhere.
Now part of Carlisle Weatherproofing Technologies (CWT), we're proud to be contributing to industry-leading innovation, sustainability, and performance. With a strong focus on energy efficiency, labor savings, and re-roofing trends, we're positioned for continued growth through Carlisle'sVision 2030strategy.
Now's the perfect time to join us!As a fully vertically integrated EPS manufacturer, our operations span over 50 locations across Canada and North America. Our recent expansions - including in-house resin production and cutting-edge technical labs-underscore our commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.

Job Summary

The Research Intern will support the commissioning, operation, and development of a laboratory-scale polymerization reactor. The intern will assist with experimental planning, raw-material preparation, reactor operation under supervision, post-processing, sample characterization, data analysis, and documentation. The role is intended to provide hands-on experience in polymerization, plastics processing, and product-development research.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Laboratory polymerization

  • Perform lab polymerization tasks, including material weighing, measuring, and addition of raw materials and chemical ingredients in laboratory scale polymerization runs
  • Operate lab scale polymer post-processing equipment including spin driers, sieve shakers, and coating mixers.
  • Assist with equipment teardown, cleaning, and reassembly after processing runs
  • Accurately record data, processing parameters, and observations during and after laboratory runs
  • Follow safety protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for equipment operation and material handling

Research and Learning

  • Perform literature and patent research to provide input in product development and formulation initiatives
  • Develop understanding of current polymerization process and formulation
  • Develop understanding of final product parameters and how these are affected by formulation changes

Laboratory Operations Support & Collaboration

  • Assist in characterization of material properties such as particle size analysis, MWD and conversion rate.
  • Develop understanding of physical and chemical testing of raw materials, intermediate products, and final products
  • Assist with material and sample pickup and staging as needed
  • Contribute to team projects and complete additional tasks as assigned

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Ability to perform laboratory chemical reactions under trained supervision and, after demonstrated competency and authorization, carry out defined procedures independently.
  • Ability to work independently on approved tasks and collaboratively with the R&D team. Reactor charging, start-up, shutdown, and abnormal-condition response must follow established supervision and lone-work requirements.
  • Ability to perform literature research and apply knowledge to real world applications
  • Effective communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Strong foundational understanding of chemistry, chemical engineering, polymer science, materials science, or related scientific principles.
  • Ability to work independently (including working alone when required), as well as in team environment
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Willingness to learn new equipment, processes, and technologies
  • Basic computer proficiency (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word)

Education and Experience:

Education

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's, master's, or PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field.
  • Experience in performing chemical reactions in a lab setting
  • Experience performing research in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

Experience

  • No prior professional experience required

Preferred

  • Prior professional or post-doc laboratory experience in a research setting
  • Exposure to polymer processing, compounding, or manufacturing environments
  • Interest in materials science, plastics technology, and product development

Working Conditions:

  • Primarily operates in a research/QC laboratory setting
  • Requires flexible work hours, i.e. shift work during lab polymerization runs and regular work hours during cleanup and characterization days. Full polymerization run takes 12 hours and will require overlapping shifts
  • No travel required
  • Equipment used includes: laboratory scale polymerization reactor, reactor temperature and mixing control, laboratory reagents, laboratory scales/balances, and other polymer processing equipment

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