Surface Polymeric Materials Co-op
Job Summary
This is a 6-month, hands-on R&D Co-Op opportunity for actively enrolled graduate students in a related Bachelors, Masters or PhD program.
Preferred: Start January 2027- End June 2027
Location: Northborough, MA
Required: In-person, on-site, full-time M-F.
Why Do We Need You?
Job Description
In this polymer development role, the Co-op will support the creation and optimization of next‑generation polymer systems by formulating new materials, conducting structured experimental studies, and performing comprehensive characterization to understand structure–property relationships. Working closely with the Tape Solutions, Gypsum and Central R&D team, the co-op will prepare and modify silicone formulations, evaluate their physical, chemical, and surface attributes, and utilize analytical tools such as optical tensiometry, peel and tack testing, and SEM to guide iterative material improvements. This hands‑on R&D experience will advance innovative, high‑performance polymer solutions that address evolving application needs across the organization.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and test new formulations to achieve the required performance
- Perform characterization on the adhesive materials using techniques such as tack and peel test, SAFT, FTIR, and SEM
- Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data and present results to the project team and business stakeholders
Is This Job for You?
Job Requirements
- Currently pursuing a Bachelors, Masters or PhD degree in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Science/Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
- Hands-on laboratory experience and strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to work safely and independently in the laboratory following all policies and procedures
- Innovative mindset and capability to design, conduct, and interpret experiments independently and in partnership with other R&D team members
- Effective oral and written communication of experimental procedures and results
- Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced and collaborative research and development environment
- Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and eager to learn new laboratory techniques and processes.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) is preferred.
- Familiarity with silicone materials and their formulation is a plus.
- Past or current experience with pressure sensitive adhesive, wet coatings, surface modification, and/or adhesion science is a plus.
A Little More About Us
Saint-Gobain Research (SGR) North America is one of Saint-Gobain's largest industrial research laboratories. The center is home to more than 400 employees working at the leading edge of innovation on multidisciplinary industrial research, preparing the future by designing tomorrow's products and processes across an amazing variety of markets and technical disciplines. Since 1985, SGR North America has been supporting existing businesses, developing future businesses, and nurturing talent. Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures, and distributes materials and solutions which are key ingredients in the wellbeing of each of us and the future of all. They can be found everywhere in our living places and our daily life: in buildings, transportation, infrastructure and in many industrial applications. They provide comfort, performance and safety while addressing the challenges of sustainable construction, resource efficiency and climate change.
Benefits in Joining Us
Certain locations require pay information to be provided in job postings. We believe in the importance of pay transparency in what we offer potential candidates. The hourly rate for internship positions ranges from $22 to $29.50 per hour. However, the actual rate provided is determined by the students’ classification in their undergraduate (freshmen, sophomore, junior, senior) or graduate (first year, second year, etc.) programs.