Research & Development Intern

Ensign-Bickford Industries; Saint Charles (MO); On-site; USD 20,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

Job summary

Ensign-Bickford Industries' AFB International unit invites students to join a 12-week summer internship in our Research & Development team. You will work alongside seasoned scientists on real projects in palatant development and product innovation.

This hands-on program covers laboratory design, data analysis, and reporting, with coaching, Kaizen practices, and exposure to lean manufacturing. Housing assistance is provided as part of the package.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a scientific degree or equivalent
• Basic laboratory skills and familiarity with analytical techniques
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Interest in product development or applied science

Responsibilities

• Assist in design, execution, and analysis of laboratory experiments under supervision
• Collect, organize, and interpret experimental data using appropriate methods
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation
• Support ongoing research related to formulation, analytical testing, or product innovation
• Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas to technical challenges

Skills

Laboratory skills

Analytical techniques

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication skills

Education

Pursuing science degree

Tools

Spectroscopy

Chromatography

Titration

Job description

This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.

Job Description

Company Overview

Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI) is a global leader with a strong reputation for innovation and excellence across multiple industries. AFB International, a member of the EBI family, specializes in palatant manufacturing for the pet food industry. We are committed to developing the next generation of talent through our structured internship program.

Internship Program Overview

The EBI 12-week summer internship program is designed to provide meaningful, hands‑on learning experiences. Interns will work alongside industry professionals on projects that have real business impact while gaining exposure to lean manufacturing practices and continuous improvement initiatives such as process flow optimization and Kaizen methodologies.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and curious R&D Scientific Interns to join our Research & Development team. This internship offers a hands‑on opportunity to contribute to real-world scientific projects, collaborate with experienced scientists, and gain exposure to the product development lifecycle in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior scientists.
• Collect, organize, and interpret experimental data using appropriate scientific and statistical methods.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings.
• Support ongoing research projects related to [e.g., formulation, analytical testing, product innovation, etc.].
• Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas to solve technical challenges.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Animal Science or related field).
• Basic laboratory skills and familiarity with common analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, titration, etc.).
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Interest in product development, innovation, or applied Science (preferred).

Program Benefits

• Meaningful projects with measurable business outcomes
• Ongoing coaching and feedback from managers and mentors
• Lunch & Learn sessions with senior leaders and executives
• Networking and social events with peers and professionals
• Exposure to leadership at all organizational levels
• Competitive compensation package, including a housing allowance

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.