Intern – Materials Engineering Focus: Materials research, characterization, and process–structure–property analysis for metal-ceramic matrix surface architectures Location: West Lafayette, IN (HARF) Duration: TBD Work Authorization / Clearance: U.S. Citizen; must be U.S. clearance eligible Preferred: Active security clearance Organization: Advanced manufacturing startup supporting military and commercial programs Role Summary INTALUS is seeking a Materials Engineering Summer Intern to support materials R&D, measurement workflows, and characterization for metal-ceramic matrix surface architectures produced on INTALUS directed-energy, multi-axis robotic platforms. This role is measurement- and analysis-facing: specimen handling, microstructural evaluation, metrology, data reduction, and repeatable documentation. The intern will work in close coordination with Manufacturing Engineering personnel who execute machine-side processing. Key Responsibilities 1. Materials characterization and measurement workflows • Prepare and track specimens through the measurement pipeline (labeling, travelers, chain-of-custody, storage). • Support metallography workflows (sectioning, mounting, grinding/polishing, etching as applicable). • Perform and document characterization tasks (as available): optical microscopy, SEM sample prep/support, hardness testing, surface roughness measurement, dimensional metrology, and infused-zone depth/feature measurements where applicable. • Compile and curate structured datasets tying run IDs and conditions to measured outputs. 2. Process–structure–property analysis • Help analyze relationships between processing conditions and resulting microstructure/properties (trend analysis, repeatability checks, anomaly detection). • Support DOE-style trial planning (measurement plans, controls, repeat runs, and data quality checks). • Produce concise technical summaries suitable for engineering review (tables, plots, standardized reporting templates). 3. Quality system support (AS9100 / ISO 9001 readiness) • Draft and improve controlled documentation for measurement and lab workflows: SOPs, checklists, inspection steps, acceptance criteria, and record templates. • Support traceability and record completeness for materials lots, specimens, and measurement outcomes (objective evidence discipline). • Assist with calibration/verification records for measurement tools and fixtures. 4. CMMC-aligned engineering data practices (Level 1–2) • Support inventory of where technical data is generated/stored/shared for materials measurements and reports. • Help develop checklists and short training aids for engineering cyber hygiene (controlled files, access control expectations, secure transfer habits). 5. Lab safety and operations support • Maintain lab notebooks, equipment readiness checklists, and consumables tracking. • Follow safety procedures for sample prep tools, chemicals, and lab equipment. What You'll Gain • Hands-on experience with materials characterization workflows applied to defense- and aerospace-relevant manufacturing. • Practical exposure to process–structure–property analysis and disciplined experimental documentation. • Experience building traceable measurement records and controlled lab artifacts aligned to AS9100 / ISO 9001 expectations. • Close collaboration with a startup engineering team in the Purdue Innovation Ecosystem.