RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT INTERN

Kent Corporation; Muscatine (IA); Hybrid; USD 17,000 - 25,000; 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™ in Muscatine, IA offers a hands-on R&D internship designed to provide practical exposure to analytical testing, formulation development, and experimental lab work across our ingredient portfolio. You will work closely with the Director of Research & New Product Development to gain real-world experience.

This paid internship emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and adherence to lab safety.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry.
• Coursework in general chemistry and laboratory techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine analytical testing using wet chemistry and basic instrumental methods under supervision.
• Prepare laboratory samples, solutions, and reagents.
• Support experimental work related to 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 projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, Quality, and Production.

Skills

Analytical testing

Lab techniques

Documentation

Team collaboration

Education

Pursuing a degree in Chemistry

Coursework in general chemistry and lab techniques

Tools

Wet chemistry

Instrumental methods

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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