Intern Researcher, Physics-Based Water Electrolyzer Modeling

Job Description

About the Job: Pioneering Human-Centric AI and Robotics for a Better Future

At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), our core mission is to improve the quality of human life by developing groundbreaking tools and capabilities that amplify the human experience. We are leading a transformative shift in mobility, powered by a world-class team dedicated to advancing the state of the art in AI, robotics, driving, and material sciences.

The Team: Accelerating Materials Design and Discovery (AMDD) for Emissions-Free Mobility

The long-term vision of TRI’s Accelerated Materials Design and Discovery (AMDD) program is to accelerate the development of truly emissions-free mobility. This ambitious goal necessitates the discovery of new materials and devices, particularly for critical applications like batteries and fuel cells. Our innovative approach at TRI involves merging sophisticated computational materials modeling, new experimental data, artificial intelligence, and automation to significantly speed up materials research in this vital area. Our primary focus is on developing robust tools and capabilities to enable this acceleration.

We foster a highly collaborative environment, working closely with a dozen universities and national labs, as well as our esteemed colleagues across global Toyota. The AMDD program is dedicated to not only developing but also translating the newest technologies into practical application, both within Toyota and for the broader open research community.

The Internship: Researcher, Physics-Based Water Electrolyzer Modeling (Summer 2026)

We are actively seeking an intern researcher to make significant contributions to the development of our physics-based water electrolyzer model. In this role, you will be instrumental in developing materials-informed water electrolyzer models designed to provide critical insight into the design and testing of zero-gap electrolyzers and related electrochemical devices. Your day-to-day responsibilities may encompass: data analytics for electrolyzers or half-cell data; deep dives into mass transport, kinetic, and thermodynamic modeling; and/or the development of structural causal models.

We invite you to join a truly unique team of scientists and engineers where you will have the continuous opportunity to constantly learn new skills at the exciting interface of materials science and artificial intelligence.

This is a Summer 2026 paid 12-week internship opportunity. Please note that this internship will be an in-office role, fostering direct collaboration and mentorship.

Responsibilities:

• Research the latest advancements in the modeling of electrolyzers and related electrochemical phenomena.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams of internal and external research partners, spanning expertise in electrochemistry and ML/AI.
• Assist with building innovative tools and capabilities that bridge physics-based modeling, experimental data, machine learning, and/or advanced simulation techniques.
• Act with humility, respect, and a strong collaborative spirit, contributing positively to our team culture.

Qualifications:

• Are currently enrolled in a doctoral program in a relevant STEM subject, such as chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Possess hands-on experimental experience with zero-gap water electrolyzers.
• Have practical experience with standard material characterization techniques (e.g., x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, etc.).
• Have published manuscripts in the electrolysis field, demonstrating your research contributions.

Bonus Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Python, for scripting, data analysis, and model development.

Application Requirement:

Please remember to add a link to your Google Scholar profile to include a full list of your publications when submitting your CV for this position.

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected pay range for this California-based internship, commencing employment, is between $45 and $65 per hour. The base pay offered will be determined by multiple individualized factors, including, but not limited to, business or organizational needs, market location, and your specific job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. TRI provides a generous benefits package, which includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off benefits (including holiday pay and sick time). Detailed information regarding these benefit plans will be provided upon receipt of an offer of employment.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

TRI is profoundly enriched by a diverse and inclusive community of individuals with unique backgrounds, educational experiences, and life journeys. We are steadfastly dedicated to fostering an innovative and collaborative environment by living the values that are an essential part of our culture. We firmly believe that diversity makes us stronger and are proud to provide Equal Employment Opportunity for all, without regard to an applicant’s race, color, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, religion, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local laws.

Legal Notices:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.

AI in Hiring:

We may utilize artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support various stages of the hiring process, such such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools are designed to assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. Should you desire more information about how your data is processed, please do not hesitate to contact us.