RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT INTERN

KENT WORLDWIDE; Muscatine (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Housing

Paid Internship

Hands-On Learning

Community Events

Real-World Experience

Build Skills

Make Connections

Launch Your Career

Job summary

KENT WORLDWIDE™ invites a Research & Development Intern in Muscatine, IA to gain hands-on experience in analytical testing, formulation development, and lab work under direct supervision. You’ll prepare samples, run tests, and document results to support real-world applications across our ingredient portfolio.

This paid internship emphasizes teamwork with R&D, Quality, and Production, while building practical skills in a collaborative, safety‑driven laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in chemistry or biochemistry.
• Completed or enrolled in general chemistry and lab techniques.
• Interest in analytical testing, product development, or applied laboratory science.
• Detail-oriented and able to follow written procedures.
• Good communication and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine analytical testing using wet chemistry and basic instrumental methods.
• Prepare laboratory samples, solutions, and reagents.
• Support formulation development, ingredient characterization, and process optimization.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, data sheets, and documentation.
• Assist with equipment setup, calibration checks, and general laboratory upkeep.
• Participate in small-scale trials and performance testing as part of ongoing project work.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, Quality, and Production.
• Follow established lab safety procedures and help maintain a clean, organized work environment.

Skills

Analytical testing

Lab teamwork

Attention to detail

Documentation

Communication

Time management

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Chemistry/Biochemistry degree

Job description

Step into a hands-on learning experience where science, curiosity, and collaboration drive innovation. As a Research & Development Intern with KENT WORLDWIDE™, you’ll work directly with our Director of Research & New Product Development, gaining practical exposure to analytical testing, product development, and experimental lab work that supports real-world applications across our ingredient portfolio.

• Paid Housing | Paid Internship | Hands-On Learning | Community Events | Real-World Experience | Build Skills. Make Connections. Launch Your Career.

This opportunity is designed and intended to be performed in Muscatine, IA.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performing routine analytical testing using wet chemistry and basic instrumental methods under supervision.
• Preparing laboratory samples, solutions, and reagents.
• Supporting experimental work related to formulation development, ingredient characterization, and process optimization.
• Maintaining accurate laboratory records, data sheets, and documentation.
• Assisting with equipment setup, calibration checks, and general laboratory upkeep.
• Participating in small-scale trials and performance testing as part of ongoing project work.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams including R&D, Quality, and Production.
• Following established lab safety procedures and helping maintain a clean, organized work environment.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Completed or enrolled in coursework in general chemistry and laboratory techniques.
• Interest in analytical testing, product development, or applied laboratory science.
• Strong attention to detail and comfort following written procedures.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently when appropriate, and collaborate effectively with a team.
• Good communication, organizational, and documentation skills.

TRAVEL EXPECTED:

• Less than 5% travel is expected.