R&D Intern, Protein Fortification & Analytical Characterization

Ingredion Incorporated; Bridgewater Township (NJ); On-site; USD 30,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing stipend

Capstone Summit

Mentor program

ERG involvement

Employee discounts

Job summary

Ingredion Incorporated in Bridgewater, NJ, is seeking an Analytical Characterization & Texture Science R&D Intern for summer 2027. You will explore pulse proteins and hydrocolloids using confocal microscopy, preparing samples, collecting data, and linking microstructure to formulation properties under the guidance of scientists.

You’ll gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and presenting findings, with training provided as needed.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Hands-on laboratory experience or coursework.
• Interest in food ingredients and analytical science.
• Ability to organize data and communicate observations clearly.
• Willingness to learn new laboratory and data-analysis techniques.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and evaluate model food systems with pulse proteins and hydrocolloids.
• Support confocal microscopy experiments by preparing samples and capturing images.
• Perform measurements related to viscosity, emulsification, and texture.
• Analyze results to relate ingredient interactions to product performance.
• Maintain lab records and follow safety procedures.
• Collaborate with scientists and interns to discuss findings.
• Summarize and present work and recommendations at internship end.

Skills

Pulse protein interactions

Analytical science interest

Microscopy

Data organization

Laboratory techniques

Communication of observations

Curiosity and detail-orientation

Education

Pursuing bachelor’s/master’s/PhD in food science/chemistry/biochemistry/materials science

Completed undergraduate laboratory coursework

Tools

Confocal microscopy

ML basics

Job description

About Ingredion:

Join Ingredion, where innovation impacts lives worldwide! Without even realizing it, you’ve experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet’s food, the paper you write on, and your everyday snacks. As a global powerhouse across more than 60 industries, we harness the potential of natural ingredients to transform lives. Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing years of experience, there's a place for you here to make a real difference. Be part of our team that values a wide range of perspectives and is committed to shaping a better world with every product we create.

Location: Bridgewater, NJ

Workplace type: On Site

We have an exciting opportunity for an ambitious student to join our Analytical Characterization & Texture Science team to help explore how plant proteins and texturizing ingredients work together in food for summer 2027! As the R&D Intern, Protein Fortification & Analytical Characterization, you will contribute to a research project using confocal microscopy and complementary analytical techniques to study interactions between pulse proteins and other hydrocolloids. Working with scientists across the Protein Fortification innovation team you will prepare samples, collect and analyze experimental data, and connect food microstructure with important application properties utilizing machine learning. This internship is designed as a hands‑on learning opportunity. Prior confocal microscopy experience is helpful but not required, and training will be provided.

What you will do:

• Prepare and evaluate model food systems containing pulse proteins and hydrocolloids.
• Support confocal microscopy experiments by preparing samples, collecting images, and performing basic analysis to link microstructure to formulation properties.
• Perform complementary laboratory measurements related to product formulation needs - including viscosity, emulsification, and texture.
• Organize and analyze experimental results to identify relationships between ingredient interactions, microstructure, and product performance.
• Maintain clear laboratory records and follow established safety, housekeeping, and experimental procedures.
• Collaborate with scientists and other interns to discuss findings and plan next steps.
• Summarize and present your work and recommendations at the conclusion of the internship.

What you will bring:

• Progress towards a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in food science, chemistry, biochemistry, materials science, or related field.
• Completion of laboratory coursework or other hands‑on laboratory experience.
• Interest in food ingredients, microscopy, material interactions, or analytical science.
• Ability to organize data and communicate observations clearly.
• Curiosity, attention to detail, and willingness to learn new laboratory and data‑analysis techniques.

Who you are:

• Eager to explore careers in analytical & materials characterization within the food & beverage industry.
• Comfortable working both independently and with guidance from a technical team.
• Creative problem‑solver with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Interested in connecting scientific observations with real food‑formulation challenges.

To be eligible for consideration, candidates must currently possess unrestricted authorization to work in the United States. Ingredion does not intend to sponsor work visas with respect to this position or to provide this position as OPT or CPT. Be a currently enrolled student in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program. If currently enrolled in an undergrad status, must have completed at least two years of coursework with status as a sophomore, junior or non‑graduating senior. If you have completed your degree, please consider other opportunities with Ingredion, posted at ww.ingredion.com/careers.

Why Join Ingredion? Discover why Ingredion is the ideal place to advance your career with our exceptional rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive. Create the future with us and enjoy:

• Total Rewards Package – competitive hourly salary based on your degree program. Housing stipends offered to students relocating 51+ miles from the Ingredion work location.
• Internship Program Events & Activities – programming catered toward career exploration, networking, and professional development - including the annual Capstone Summit at Ingredion HQ in Westchester, IL.
• Intern Coaching Program – pairing with a mentor to coach development and integration in Ingredion’s culture.
• Involvement in Ingredion’s Business Resource Groups – the conscience of our Inclusion & Belonging strategy.
• Employee Recognition Program – a culture of real‑time appreciation, with personalized recognition rewards globally.
• Employee Discount Program – provides exclusive discounts on everyday products, services, and travel.

Pay Range: $22-42 USD/hr

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in all aspects of employment. We are committed to establishing and maintaining a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Ingredion provides accommodations to job applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. Ingredion uses AI-enabled tools to support parts of the recruitment process, including resume screening and interview scheduling. All AI‑assisted decisions are reviewed by our Talent Acquisition team.

Relocation Available: No

Benefits: Full‑time roles are eligible for comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage and a 401(k) plan with a competitive company match.