Coop / Internship - Chemical Engineering Research Assistant
Start date: Flexible, ~June 2025 ideal
Company Overview:
Hyfé transforms plant waste into chemical alternatives to petroleum. Petrochemicals account for 7% of global emissions and drive over a third of global oil demand, yet the industry remains one of the most overlooked contributors to climate change.
At the same time, over four billion tons of plant biomass waste are generated globally each year—containing more than enough carbon to replace petroleum-derived chemicals entirely.
Hyfé addresses this challenge with a novel biorefining approach that uses green chemistry and catalysis to produce low-cost platform chemicals. Unlike traditional biorefineries, Hyfé leverages food processing waste, which are rich in high-value specialty chemicals, enabling platform chemicals to be competitively priced and biorefineries profitable at any scale.
Backed by a leadership team with deep expertise in oil refining, novel technology scale-up, and capital projects, Hyfé is uniquely positioned to commercialize refining of the future. By converting underutilized plant waste into valuable resources, we not only reduce emissions but also pave the way for decarbonizing industries heavily reliant on fossil-based resources.
Role
We are looking for summer semester and/or year-long coops for students pursuing chemical engineering or chemistry degrees. This role will report to the VP of Engineering and Process Technology and work closely with other members of the Hyfé team.
Responsibilities
Collaborate with technical team to plan, prepare, and perform experiments, including buffer preparation and sterilization, lignocellulosic pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, etc.
Perform scientific research online, as needed
Follow all safety practices, including wearing proper PPE, completing safety trainings, and contributing to the ongoing development of safety systems and protocols
Manage routine lab maintenance and upkeep, including inventory, cleaning, and organization
Chip in to tackle miscellaneous tasks, like office organizational task, setting up computers and equipment, and ordering/procuring supplies
Complete tasks within agreed timelines, tracking and communicating progress
Requirements
Currently working on collegiate level chemical engineering or chemistry courses with laboratory component
Ability to set up a regular schedule of 40 hr/week during standard business hours
Innovative mindset with a can-do attitude and passion for Hyfé’s vision
Ability to navigate challenges independently, leveraging team for feedback when appropriate
Strong interpersonal, communication, and time management skills
Authorization to work in the US (unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position)
Familiarity with SuperPro Designer or Aspen plus highly preferred
Equal Employment Opportunity
Hyfé Foods is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.