Kirkwood Community College

Internships > Research Assistant Intern: Analytical Chemistry

Research Assistant Intern: Analytical Chemistry



, Iowa

Internship Length: 45 hrs
Office Hours: 8:00-5:00 PM, M-F

Analytical chemistry applied to water quality

 

Iowa has a significant problem with high levels of nutrients in surface and groundwaters.  In addition to causing problems with local and regional ecosystems (i.e. algal blooms, cyanobacteria, hypoxia), high levels of nitrate may also have a negative impact on Cedar Rapids’ drinking water supply.  This project involves sampling numerous surface water sites, making field measurements of various parameters, and analyzing water samples in the laboratory.  Data is then compiled, analyzed, and shared with a number of different governmental agencies and other groups.

 

The intern will work with Coe undergraduates to carry out sampling and analyses.  The intern will gain experience measuring dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, turbidity, and temperature in the field.  Laboratory experiences will include operating and calibrating an ion chromatograph, flow injection analyzer, and inductively coupled plasma spectrometer, as well as analyzing samples for total suspended solids and for E. coli.

 

Student requirements

-          Completion of AP Chemistry

-          Ability to follow instructions, take directions, and work as part of a group

-          Strong record keeping abilities

-          Good organizational skills

THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT LIST ALL DUTIES. INTERN MAY BE ASKED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES BY THE STAFF OR SUPERVISOR. INTERN WILL BE EVALUATED ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECTS LISTED AS WELL AS INTERACTION WITH EMPLOYEES AND CLIENTS. ON-SITE HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED WITH EACH CANDIDATE.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS, INCLUDING HARASSMENT, SHOULD BE REVIEWED WITH THE HOST.



« back to listing