What are the responsibilities and job description for the Planet-Positive Film R&D Intern Spring 2027 position at Seagull EcoChem?
Company Description Seagull EcoChem develops recyclable fiber-based packaging that delivers plastic-like performance at paper-level cost, enabling brands to transition to more sustainable materials without compromising quality or budget. Its flagship platform, Seagull film, is a fiber-based flexible package designed for a seamless swap from conventional flexible plastics to recyclable alternatives. The company has received support from organizations such as the NSF Textile Engine, BeVisioneers, the Mercedes-Benz Fellowship, and the Fowler Global Social Innovation Challenge, reflecting strong backing for its mission. Seagull EcoChem is focused on replacing its first 100 kg of flexible plastic and welcomes mission-driven collaborators and early-stage investors. The company is based in the Raleigh, NC area; more information is available at Seagullecochem.com.
Role Description The Planet-Positive Film R&D Intern (Spring 2027) will support the development of Seagull film by aiding, and eventually leading R&D processes, experiments, and pilot trials. This part-time 10-20 hours/ week role in Raleigh, NC involves film preparation and characterization. Day-to-day responsibilities includes sample preparation and characterization in lab and production environments. The intern will collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, and the founding team to design a customer ready packaging material aligned with the company’s mission.
Qualifications
- Values: Mission-driven, passionate, curious, and accountable
- Candidates should be passionate about the plastics problem
- Candidates should be a technical student
- Candidates should take initiative without direct instruction
- Relevant qualifications include familiarity with general chemistry topics and laboratory safety, ability to work on-site in lab and light industrial settings, and strong organizational and collaboration skills.
- Preferred qualifications include coursework or experience in laboratory sample preparation, characterization using polymer and fiber related equipment
- Paper sciences students are invited to apply!