R&D Chemical Recycling Intern

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.
About the role
Join our Polymer Application and Recycling R&D team within Sulzer's Chemtech division in Switzerland as an R&D Chemical Recycling Intern. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative technologies that support the transition towards a more circular and sustainable chemical industry.
In this role, you will collaborate with experienced scientists and engineers on laboratory and pilot-scale projects focused on chemical recycling, renewable chemicals, and sustainable fuels. You will gain valuable hands-on experience with advanced analytical techniques, reactor systems, and process development activities while contributing to cutting-edge research and development programs.
If you are passionate about chemistry, sustainability, and innovation, this internship offers a unique opportunity to develop your technical expertise within a dynamic, international, and collaborative environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement analytical methods for the characterization of oils, plastics, waxes, solvents, and complex chemical mixtures.
Conduct laboratory-scale investigations focused on chemical recycling, feedstock upgrading, purification, and upcycling processes.
Operate laboratory reactors and support experimental campaigns across a range of R&D projects.
Perform sample characterization using standardized analytical methods, including ASTM, UOP, and ISO procedures.
Analyze, interpret, and document experimental results in technical reports.
Present findings and recommendations during project and team meetings.
Assist with the setup, execution, and monitoring of pilot plant trials.
Support troubleshooting activities and help resolve operational challenges during pilot-scale campaigns.
Participate in continuous pilot plant operations, including shift-based activities when required.
Contribute to additional innovation projects involving polymer applications, biofuels, solvents, and bio-based monomers and polymers.
Maintain high standards of laboratory safety and ensure compliance with Environment, Safety, and Health (ESH) requirements.
Help foster a safe, efficient, and well-organized laboratory environment
Your profile:
Master's degree in Chemistry, preferrably with a specialization in Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science
Hands-on laboratory experience within a chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, polymer, or flavor & fragrance environment
Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry and separation and purification sciences
Practical experience with chemical purification, separation techniques, and lab-scale reactor operations
Experience using analytical instruments and techniques such as GC (MS, FID, TOFMS, TCD), ICP-MS, CIC, Simulated Distillation (SimDist), and titration methods including Karl Fischer, Total Acid Number, and Bromine Number
Knowledge of physical property measurements such as density and viscosity
Strong understanding of laboratory safety practices and safe handling of chemicals and potentially hazardous materials
Proficient English language skills, German is a plus
Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and organizational skills
Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams
What we offer you
An innovative, vibrant and agile culture
Excellent social benefits (holidays, pension fund etc.)
Access to a wide range of discounts on Everyday Shopping, Entertainment and Lifestyle
Central workplace, only 5 minutes from Winterthur train station
Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.
We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2026 in Brazil, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, South Africa, the UK and the USA.