Graduate Intern – Focused Ion Beam, Electron Microscopy, and Autonomous Characterization

What you'd do

• Assist with maintenance, calibration, and performance validation of FIB, PFIB, and laser PFIB instruments, following established procedures and safety protocols.
• Develop and test Python-based instrument scripting and automation routines for ion beam control, image acquisition, and adaptive workflow execution.
• Build and validate computer vision pipelines — including semantic segmentation models — for real-time site identification, feature detection, and sample quality assessment during FIB/PFIB operations.
• Support time-sensitive customer characterization assignments, including sample preparation, data collection, and preparation of concise technical reports on short turnaround.
• Explore integration of foundation models and large language models (LLMs) for natural language instrument interfacing, automated reporting, and AI-guided experimental decision-making.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary staff across materials science, physics, chemistry, and engineering; document methods and contribute to internal reports and peer-reviewed publications as appropriate.

What they want

• Applicants are responsible for uploading official or unofficial school transcripts, as part of the application process.
• If selected for position, a letter of recommendation will be required as part of the hiring process.
• Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
• Strong background in materials science, physics, chemistry, engineering, or a closely related discipline at the master’s level.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; demonstrated ability to produce clear technical documentation and meet reporting deadlines. Ability to work effectively in diverse, multidisciplinary research teams.