Coop / Internship - Chemical Engineering Research Assistant
Company Overview
Hyfé transforms plant waste into chemical alternatives to petroleum. Petrochemicals account for 7% of global emissions and drive over a third of global oil demand, yet the industry remains one of the most overlooked contributors to climate change.
At the same time, over four billion tons of plant biomass waste are generated globally each year—containing more than enough carbon to replace petroleum-derived chemicals entirely.
Hyfé addresses this challenge with a novel biorefining approach that uses green chemistry and catalysis to produce low-cost platform chemicals. Unlike traditional biorefineries, Hyfé leverages food processing waste, which are rich in high-value specialty chemicals, enabling platform chemicals to be competitively priced and biorefineries profitable at any scale.
Backed by a leadership team with deep expertise in oil refining, novel technology scale-up, and capital projects, Hyfé is uniquely positioned to commercialize refining of the future. By converting underutilized plant waste into valuable resources, we not only reduce emissions but also pave the way for decarbonizing industries heavily reliant on fossil-based resources.
Job Overview
We are looking for summer semester and/or year-long coops for students pursuing chemical engineering or chemistry degrees. This role will report to the VP of Engineering and Process Technology and work closely with other members of the Hyfé team.
We seek a passionate individual dedicated to addressing climate change, who recognizes capitalism's potential to drive meaningful and sustainable solutions. The ideal candidate embodies our core values—unity, courage, momentum, dependability, and joy—values that are essential to tackling one of the greatest challenges of our time.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the technical team to plan, prepare, and perform experiments, including buffer preparation and sterilization, lignocellulosic pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, etc.
- Perform scientific research online, as needed
- Follow all safety practices, including wearing proper PPE, completing safety trainings, and contributing to the ongoing development of safety systems and protocols
- Manage routine lab maintenance and upkeep, including inventory, cleaning, and organization
- Chip in to tackle miscellaneous tasks, like office organizational task, setting up computers and equipment, and ordering/procuring supplies
- Complete tasks within agreed timelines, tracking and communicating progress
Required Qualifications
- Currently working on collegiate level chemical engineering or chemistry courses with laboratory component
- Ability to set up a regular schedule of 40 hr/week during standard business hours
- Innovative mindset with a can-do attitude and passion for Hyfé’s vision
- Ability to navigate challenges independently, leveraging team for feedback when appropriate
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and time management skills
- Authorization to work in the US (unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position)
- Familiarity with SuperPro Designer or Aspen plus highly preferred
Benefits
- Competitive annual salary, commensurate with experience
- 401k plan
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Short-term & long-term disability coverage
- In-office snacks & drinks
- Weekly team lunch
Apply here: https://jobs.polymer.co/hyfe-foods/33632