BlueDot Photonics, a Seattle-based company, is growing its team to realize its mission of delivering solar power at a fraction of today’s costs. We are a spin-off from the University of Washington focused on developing new technology to improve the efficiency of today’s solar panels and manufacture new optoelectronic devices based on metal-halide perovskite semiconductors. We are a fast-paced start-up that provides workers with independence and opportunities to come up with creative solutions to tough problems.

 

We are looking for a Summer Intern to assist in our current materials R&D and help drive the development of new solar devices using our proprietary technology.

​

Job Responsibilities: 

​

You will have the opportunity to work with a world-class team of research scientists and engineers, gaining key insight into how an early-stage start-up conducts rapid R&D. More specifically, you will develop valuable analytical techniques, including x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic scanning calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and other optical spectroscopies. You will also learn valuable lessons about experimental design and critical thinking while planning and executing your own experiments related to materials degradation and characterization.

 

Day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Materials characterization includes, but is not limited to, x-ray diffraction, UV/Vis spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, optical microscopy, profilometry, and scanning electron microscopy.

• Assist in sample prep and other ancillary lab activities to ensure the smooth operation of the BlueDot team.

• Document results from testing and characterization to company standards.

• Assist as needed in the preparation of photoactive materials involved in the production of PV devices.

• Prepare reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information and trends.

• Preserve product and company reputation by complying with government laws and regulations.

• Collaborate with team members to keep equipment operational by coordinating maintenance and repair, and following manufacturer’s instructions and established procedures

• Collaborate with other team members to improve and refine technology in both formal meetings and in day-to-day work.

• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related activities as needed. 
   

Qualifications:

​

Successful candidates will have the following attributes:

• Course and lab work in organic chemistry, physics, and or materials synthesis and characterization.

• Competence with Microsoft Office and data processing software (Igor, Origin, or Python).

• Desire to learn and an interest in science and renewable energy.

• Excellent time-management skills to coordinate and plan multiple activities.

• Effective communication and presentation of technical information.

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student with a preference for a student from the University of Washington.

​

Location:

​

Work will be performed at the Washington Clean Energy Testbeds in Seattle, WA. This state-of-the-art research facility has the tools and instrumentation needed for stress testing and characterizing photovoltaic materials. In addition to regular laboratory hygiene and safety protocols, the laboratory observes strict social distancing and PPE requirements to ensure a safe working environment under WA state guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data analysis and other non-laboratory tasks will be performed remotely using Microsoft Teams and BlueDot’s SharePoint cloud storage.

 

Role Start Date: May/June 2022

​

Hours and Compensation:

​

The expected time commitment of the intern is 40 hours per week. The duration of the internship is flexible with a minimum of 10 weeks expected. We are willing to work with the candidate to accommodate academic calendars and reasonable summer travel. The details of the work schedule will be agreed upon between the company supervisor and the intern.

​

Compensation is $18 per hour. No benefits are provided.

 

Please send your resumé and cover letter to contact@bluedotphotonics.com. Resumé should highlight relevant prior experience with a specific focus on devices produced or processes executed in prior roles or in educational settings. The cover letter should answer the following questions: 1) why do you want to work with BlueDot, 2) what do you need from a company to succeed, and 3) what are your key strengths and weaknesses as you see them?

 

​We look forward to hearing from you!