3 answers
Xavier
Student
United States
1
Question
Updated
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How difficult is it to get an internship in materials and science engineering#Fall25?
I’m worried I won’t be able to find an internship while in college.
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3 answers
Fahad Elahi Khan
Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate
44
Answers
Chittagong, Chittagong Division, Bangladesh
Updated
Fahad Elahi’s Answer
Landing an internship in materials science engineering can be competitive, but it is definitely doable if you start preparing early and stay persistent do not worry too much, many students feel the same way. In 2025, the field is growing with demand in areas like sustainable materials, so opportunities are out there, but you will need a solid GPA, relevant coursework, and some lab experience to stand out. Apply broadly through sites like Handshake or LinkedIn, and aim for summer programs starting in your sophomore year research labs at your university often have spots for undergrads too. Networking at career fairs or joining societies like the Materials Research Society can help connect you with openings. If it feels tough at first, volunteer in related projects or take on campus research to build your resume. Keep at it you will find something that fits.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Securing an internship in materials science and engineering requires a strong academic foundation, reinforced through relevant courses, laboratory work, research projects, and hands-on experiences. Networking and mentorship are equally important and can be developed by connecting with professors, alumni, and industry professionals, attending conferences, and participating in materials-focused societies. Applying early and tailoring resumes and cover letters to align with a company’s focus in areas such as polymers, metals, semiconductors, energy materials, or biomaterials demonstrates both technical maturity and clarity of purpose.
You should also leverage structured programs and professional platforms, including LinkedIn, Indeed, the NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates, national laboratory internships, and associations like ASM International, TMS, and the American Ceramic Society. Virtual platforms such as Coursera, edX, MIT OpenCourseWare, and NPTEL, along with global virtual conferences and materials-focused hackathons, provide opportunities to gain practical skills, network, and build a strong portfolio. By combining technical expertise, hands-on experience, strategic applications, and proactive networking, you can secure a materials science and engineering internship while continuously refining your skills and professional connections.
You should also leverage structured programs and professional platforms, including LinkedIn, Indeed, the NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates, national laboratory internships, and associations like ASM International, TMS, and the American Ceramic Society. Virtual platforms such as Coursera, edX, MIT OpenCourseWare, and NPTEL, along with global virtual conferences and materials-focused hackathons, provide opportunities to gain practical skills, network, and build a strong portfolio. By combining technical expertise, hands-on experience, strategic applications, and proactive networking, you can secure a materials science and engineering internship while continuously refining your skills and professional connections.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Xavier,
I don't think it's super difficult to find internships in materials science and engineering if you remember that materials are all around you. You'll find people dealing with materials of some kind in chemistry, in physics, in biology, and in engineering disciplines. Once you know what kind of materials you are interested in (electronic, polymer, metals etc), you'll have a better idea where to look.
You can look for internships or research opportunities in college departments, at National Labs and in many industries. You can use LinkedIn or Indeed to find advertised opportunities. You can check with individual National Labs and the Department of Energy for summer programs and internships. You can also use professional societies like the Materials Research Society, the Electrochemical Society, the American Physical Society, American Chemical Society or IEEE to search for opportunities.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
I don't think it's super difficult to find internships in materials science and engineering if you remember that materials are all around you. You'll find people dealing with materials of some kind in chemistry, in physics, in biology, and in engineering disciplines. Once you know what kind of materials you are interested in (electronic, polymer, metals etc), you'll have a better idea where to look.
You can look for internships or research opportunities in college departments, at National Labs and in many industries. You can use LinkedIn or Indeed to find advertised opportunities. You can check with individual National Labs and the Department of Energy for summer programs and internships. You can also use professional societies like the Materials Research Society, the Electrochemical Society, the American Physical Society, American Chemical Society or IEEE to search for opportunities.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP