PhD Intern - Artificial Intelligence Engineering and Robotics

Key Skills

Aartificial intelligence, AI Robotic systems, C Programming, C++, Data science techniques, Effective communication skills, Java Programming, Python Programming

Job Description

Our expert staff provide multi-disciplinary solutions to complex energy and environmental issues. Key capabilities include science (chemical and mechanical). We employ a systems perspective that includes, discovery technology development and scale-up as well as economic, regulatory, and market acceptance issues necessary for successful technology commercialization. EP&MD focuses on three mission contributions: Clean Fossil Energy, Electricity Infrastructure, & Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

Responsibilities

The Energy Processes & Materials Group within the Energy and Environment Directorate at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is actively seeking a motivated research intern with a passion for applying cutting-edge advances in artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, and software to support research and development of electrochemical energy storage technologies.

As an Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Intern, you will play a critical role in instrument integration and automation, contributing to the development of best-in-class solutions and tools needed to enable a self-driving lab for accelerated energy materials discovery. In this dynamic role, you will work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with materials and data scientists, and partnering with internal teams to develop autonomous workflows. Your efforts will focus on accelerating basic and applied research and development in redox flow batteries and lithium-ion batteries, spanning materials development, device fabrication/testing, and final product delivery. Join us in driving energy innovation for a sustainable future.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Candidates must be currently enrolled/matriculated in a PhD program at an accredited college.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• At least one year of relevant academic research or practical experience in developing automation applications.
• Proficiency in one or more of the following areas: robot control, ROS, lidar, object recognition, precision control, 3D vision systems, physics-based simulation, human-robot interaction, and reinforcement learning.
• Programming experience and proficiency in Python (main), Java, C, or C++.
• Experience in materials science and electrochemistry, including hands-on work with the development of novel energy storage materials and systems, and electrochemical characterization and analysis, is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of organic/inorganic synthesis, battery fabrication, electroanalytical techniques, and common characterization tools such as NMR, UV-vis, XRD, SEM, TEM, TGA, FTIR, and Raman is recommended.
• Safety-conscious with demonstrated expertise in experimental and data analysis, superior critical thinking, strong teamwork, and excellent oral and written communication skills.
• The ability to work effectively with scientists, engineers, and researchers from different groups or laboratories is essential.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not applicable.

Additional Information

The intern has the option to commence the internship either immediately or during the summer of 2024.

Testing Designated Position

This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

About PNNL

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, flexible work schedules and telework options. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity

Our laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.

Drug Free Workplace

PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.

Mandatory Requirements

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.

Rockstar Rewards

Regular Hourly:

Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance. Employees are eligible for the company funded pension plan and 401k savings plan, once eligibility requirements are met.

Temporary Hourly:

Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance.