R&D PhD Summer Intern – Polymer Synthesis

Procter & Gamble; United States; On-site; USD 172,200,000 - 174,955,000; Full time

Job summary

Procter & Gamble’s R&D internship in Mason, OH, seeks a PhD candidate to explore structure–property relationships in polymer systems. The intern will synthesize well-defined polymers, characterize them, and compare results with computational predictions, collaborating with both experimental and modeling teams.

This 12‑week program runs from May to August 2027, offering exposure to industrial materials innovation and hands-on experience at the interface of synthesis and modeling.

Qualifications

• PhD candidate in Polymer Science or related field.
• Experience with polymer synthesis and modification.
• Ability to independently plan and execute laboratory research.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize polymers with controlled architectures using established methods.
• Characterize materials using NMR, SEC/GPC, FTIR and rheology.
• Test materials to evaluate physical and mechanical properties.
• Compare experimental results with model predictions to refine understanding.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Data analysis

Python

Education

PhD candidate in Polymer Science/related

Tools

NMR

SEC/GPC

FTIR

Job description

JOB LOCATION MASON BUS AND INNOVATION CTR

Job Description Research and Development (R&D) at Procter & Gamble, the largest consumer packaged goods company in the world, includes a diverse group of roles that contribute to the innovation and development of our products. It encompasses roles in product research, formulation, testing, and scientific analysis. You will find variety and excitement starting Day 1. This internship is specifically designed for individuals working towards a PhD who are developing proficiency in their field. As an intern or co‑op in management, you will have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in a supportive environment. This is a 12‑week paid internship, designed to provide you with a solid foundation for future career growth. The internship will take place from May (potentially early June) to August of 2027. Join us at P&G, where your contributions will play a vital role in shaping the future of consumer products!

THE OPPORTUNITY

This PhD internship will focus on understanding structure-property relationships in polymeric materials as part of our Corporate Function R&D team. The intern will synthesize and characterize well‑defined polymer systems, investigate how molecular architecture influences material behavior, and generate experimental data to evaluate and refine computational model predictions. The intern will work closely with both experimental polymer scientists and computational modelers, gaining experience at the interface of materials development and simulation. By integrating experimental and modeling approaches, the assignment will address fundamental questions in polymer science while supporting active industrial materials innovation efforts.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Synthesis of a series of polymer materials with controlled molecular architectures using established internal and published methods.
• Structural characterization of synthesized materials using relevant analytical techniques.
• Preparation and testing of materials to evaluate key physical and mechanical properties.
• Comparison of experimental results with computational model predictions to assess model accuracy and identify opportunities for refinement.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Working toward a PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in a broad range of polymer synthesis and modification techniques, including the functionalization of polysaccharides and other natural materials.
• Ability to independently select, execute, and interpret polymer characterization methods, including NMR, SEC/GPC, FTIR, rheology, thermal analysis, and related analytical methods.
• Experience preparing and testing materials to evaluate physical, mechanical, and performance properties.
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan and execute laboratory research, including polymer synthesis, characterization, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and solve complex technical problems.
• Experience documenting, analyzing, interpreting, and communicating scientific data and results.
• Ability to work onsite at our Mason Business and Innovation Center a minimum of 3-5 days per week.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with polymer physics, soft materials, molecular modeling, molecular simulation, coarse‑grained modeling, self‑consistent field theory, or other computational approaches used to predict polymer structure‑property relationships is beneficial.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment spanning experimental and computational research.
• Proficiency with Python-based scientific computing and data analysis tools for processing, visualizing, and interpreting experimental and computational datasets.

Just so you know: At P&G, we believe that diverse experiences help build strong leaders. Mobility is a key component of many management careers, providing opportunities to grow through different assignments, locations, and business challenges. Candidates should be prepared to consider relocation opportunities throughout their career as business needs and development opportunities arise.

Compensation for roles at P&G varies depending on a wide array of non‑discriminatory factors including but not limited to the specific office location, role, degree/credentials, relevant skill set, and level of relevant experience. At P&G compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. Total rewards at P&G include salary + bonus (if applicable) + benefits.

Your recruiter may be able to share more about our total rewards offerings and the specific salary range for the relevant location(s) during the hiring process.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities in employment. We value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Immigration Sponsorship is not available for this role.

For more information regarding who is eligible for hire at P&G along with other work authorization FAQ’s, please click HERE.

Procter & Gamble participates in E-Verify. Qualified individuals will not be disadvantaged based on being unemployed.

P&G is dedicated to meeting the needs of applicants requesting an accommodation/adjustment due to a disability in order to complete the online application process. If you have a disability that affects your ability to complete our online application process, please visit our Disability Accommodation Page.

Job Schedule Full time

Job Number R000160228

Job Segmentation Internships

Starting Pay / Salary Range $60.57 - $60.57 / hour

P&G was founded over 180 years ago as a simple soap and candle company. Today, we’re the world’s largest consumer goods company and home to iconic, trusted brands that make life a little bit easier in small but meaningful ways. We’ve spanned three centuries thanks to three simple ideas: leadership, innovation and citizenship. The insight, innovation and passion of talented teams has helped us grow into a global company that is governed responsibly and ethically, that is open and transparent, and that supports good causes and protects the environment. This is a place where you can be proud to work and do something that matters.