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Nanoparticle Research Associate Co-Op

Entegris · Aurora, IL · $20.00–$30.00 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 10, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about any lab experience you have preparing or characterizing nanoparticles.

What they are checking: Whether they have relevant hands-on lab skills to contribute quickly in a six-month co-op.

Tell me about a time you analyzed experimental data and reached a conclusion you were confident in.

What they are checking: Whether they can interpret data carefully and support their conclusions with evidence.

Describe a time an experiment failed. What did you learn from it?

What they are checking: Whether they treat failed experiments as information and keep going with curiosity.

Why are you interested in CMP applications and semiconductor materials?

What they are checking: Whether they have real interest in the field, which drives better work in a short assignment.

What would you do

Your surface modification results aren't repeatable from batch to batch. How would you figure out why?

What they are checking: Whether they troubleshoot experiments methodically by checking reagents, conditions, and procedures.

How would you present your results to a team of scientists at the end of the co-op?

What they are checking: Whether they can summarize findings clearly and point out what should be done next.

About the work

What do you know about silane chemistry for surface modification, and why would it matter for CMP particles?

What they are checking: Whether they understand how surface chemistry affects particle stability and polishing performance.

How would electron microscopy, NMR, and thermogravimetric analysis each tell you something different about a modified particle?

What they are checking: Whether they understand what each technique measures and how they complement each other.

How do you keep a lab notebook so someone else could repeat your work?

What they are checking: Whether they document with enough detail to support reproducibility, which R&D depends on.

What safety precautions matter when working with nanoparticles and silanes?

What they are checking: Whether they take inhalation and chemical reactivity risks seriously in the lab.

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The full job description

As published by Entegris.

Job Title: Nanoparticle Research Associate Co-Op Job Description: Here at Entegris, we use advanced science to enable technologies that transform the world, and we are seeking employees who have the drive to continue the mission. The Role: Our site in Aurora, IL is seeking a Nanoparticle Research Associate Co-Op to join our team for the Spring 2027 season. This assignment is intended to be 6 months in duration. Hiring a nanoparticle co‑op focused on CMP applications will substantially strengthen our organization’s capacity for innovation, operational efficiency, and sustained competitive advantage. By leveraging specialized expertise in nanotechnology and materials science, this role provides a cost‑effective means to accelerate the development of advanced solutions, ensuring our team remains at the forefront of technological progress. What You’ll Do: • Nanoparticles: Support the preparation and characterization of nanoparticles for CMP applications. • Surface Modification: Perform surface modification experiments utilizing silane chemistry to optimize nanoparticle performance. • Surface Characterization: Apply advanced analytical techniques, including electron microscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis, to assess surface properties and modifications. • Data Analysis: Interpret experimental results, prepare comprehensive reports, and present findings to the research team. • Collaboration: Partner effectively with team members to execute project objectives and actively contribute to laboratory meetings with technical insights and recommendations. What We Seek: • Education: Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s program in Chemistry, Nanotechnology, or a related discipline. • Knowledge: Completed coursework in organic and inorganic chemistry, demonstrating a strong theoretical foundation. • Laboratory Skills: Proficient in chemical laboratory techniques, including safe handling of chemicals and materials; completed organic and inorganic laboratory courses. • Analytical Skills: Skilled in data analysis and interpretation to support research conclusions. • Team Collaboration: Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a proactive approach to teamwork and knowledge sharing. • Attention to Detail: Highly organized with exceptional accuracy and precision in experimental work and documentation. Desired Major(s) & Graduation Year: • Desired Major: Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or a related field. • Graduation Year: Rising 3rd Year in the bachelor program or 2nd year in the master program Eligibility: • Must be a currently enrolled student • Available to work 40 hours a week, M-F (8a-5p) beginning in January through June • Must be familiar with the university’s requirements to participate in a co-op program • Entegris is not currently hiring candidates for co-ops/internships who will need, now or at any time in the future, Entegris sponsorship through the H1-B lottery. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: • Manual lifting of up to 45 lbs. • Ability to wear all PPEs to work in the chemical environment. WHY WORK AT ENTEGRIS? Lead. Inspire. Innovate. Define Your Future. Not everyone who works for a global company shares the same background, experiences and perspectives. We leverage the differences of our employees to bring new ideas to the table. Every employee throughout the company is encouraged to share input on projects and initiatives. Our decision-making process is truly a collaborative effort as we realize there are leaders at every level of the organization. We put our values at the core of how we operate as an organization — not just when it’s convenient, but in a lasting and meaningful way. We want the time and energy you spend here to have a positive impact on your life inside and outside of the office. WHAT WE OFFER • Our total rewards package goes above and beyond just a paycheck. Whether you’re looking to build your career, improve your health, or protect your wealth, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals. • Compensation: $20-$30/hour range with actual pay dependent on candidate overall skills for the role • Values-driven culture with colleagues that rally around People, Accountability, Creativity and Excellence Entegris does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. • Do not apply for this role if you will need Entegris immigration sponsorship (e.g., H1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) now or in the future. • At Entegris we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees and applicants. Our policy is to recruit, hire, train, and reward employees for their individual abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital or military status.

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