Laboratory Intern at a Carbon Removal Startup

Aquarry is a pre-seed stage startup working to convert mine pit lakes into massive carbon sinks. We’re seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented part-time intern to assist with laboratory testing of a new carbon removal process. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge climate tech startup and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for carbon removal. If you are passionate about environmental sustainability and eager to contribute to the development of geochemical carbon removal technologies, we encourage you to apply for this internship opportunity.

Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the CTO to conduct laboratory experiments to test the efficiency and efficacy of the Aquarry process
• Safely prepare and handle liquid and solid samples for analysis
• Establish standard protocols for carbonation and leaching testing
• Operate laboratory equipment and instruments, including standard wet chemistry experiments, electrode sensors, and data acquisition systems
• Record and analyze data, and assist in the interpretation of experimental findings
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory
• Collaborate with the founding team to troubleshoot issues and optimize laboratory procedures

Must-Have Qualifications:

• Junior or senior undergraduate, recent grad, or currently enrolled in a graduate-level degree program in geology, chemistry, environmental science, or a related field
• Strong knowledge and understanding of laboratory techniques and procedures
• Experience with sample preparation, handling, and analysis
• Familiarity with analytical instruments and equipment commonly used in environmental testing
• Basic data analysis skills
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities
• US Citizen, permanent resident, or have the right to work in the US

Bonus Qualifications:

• Familiarity with geochemical and hydrologic modeling software (e.g., PHREEQC, Geochemists’ Workbench, CE-QUALW2, PITLAKQ
• Experience with GIS systems (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS, Google Earth Engine)
• Programming or scripting skills (e.g., Python or R)
• Prior experience in ocean-based carbon removal or carbonate geochemistry

Additional Information:

• Location: in person in our lab in the Denver metro area
• Schedule: 20 hours, flexible
• Duration: 6 months with possibility to extend
• Start date: flexible, late Q4 2023 to Q1 2024
• Compensation: $22-30/hr, contract basis
• This is a 1099 position. Persons paid on a 1099 basis are independent contractors and are self-employed. Independent contractors are required to pay all self-employment taxes (Social Security & Medicare) as well as income tax.

Aquarry is committed to building a workplace of mutual respect and inclusion for all employees. We welcome all applicants and strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBTQA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. Applicants will not be discriminated against based on their race, color, caste, religion, national origin, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregchemnancy, status as a parent, veteran and/or military status, or political affiliation. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.