J-1 Chemistry Internship Cambridge @ MacroCycle
Innovation at the Heart of MIT and Harvard: Your Year in Cambridge
Cambridge, Massachusetts, is known worldwide for having the highest density of innovation. At MacroCycle Technologies Inc, you have the opportunity to work directly in this environment on the future of the circular economy. As part of an MIT spin-off, research here focuses on technologies that transform textile waste back into high-quality fibers. Students of Chemistry or Material Sciences will find an environment that combines scientific excellence with true entrepreneurship.
The Host Organization
MacroCycle is a fast-growing deep-tech startup that emerged from MIT. Based on Main Street, Cambridge, the team develops SolvoGenesis™ technology to recycle PET and polyester waste more efficiently and cleanly than conventional methods. The company is firmly embedded in the local startup ecosystem and provides access to a world-class network of research and industry leaders.
Your Role in the Research Team
During this period (36 to 52 weeks), you will be actively involved in optimizing recycling processes and working under real laboratory conditions:
- Lab Research: You will perform chemical reactions at a laboratory scale to process and upcycle textile waste.
- Analytics: You will utilize state-of-the-art procedures such as NMR, GPC, and FTIR, evaluate the results, and present your findings in weekly team meetings.
- Process Optimization: You will work closely with chemists and engineers to bring SolvoGenesis™ technology to market readiness.
- Networking: Due to the location, you will benefit from innovation events and contacts within the hub surrounding Harvard and MIT.
- Housing: Since Cambridge has a very dynamic housing market, housing is not provided directly. However, the local team will support you in finding safe and affordable accommodation near the workplace.
Career Impact
A year of research in Cambridge at an MIT-affiliated startup is a massive upgrade for any professional profile. You demonstrate not only sound technical knowledge in analytical chemistry but also the ability to thrive in an extremely fast-paced and collaborative startup environment. This combination of science and entrepreneurship is highly sought after internationally.
The J-1 Process
To ensure your focus remains entirely on research, the administrative handling is managed through the VisaNerd infrastructure. The system handles the legal vetting of the host and manages the creation of your DS-2019 documents for the entire duration of your stay.
Infrastructure Guarantee
This placement is exclusively tied to the VisaNerd infrastructure. The legal vetting as well as the issuance of the DS-2019 form are handled entirely via the certified VisaNerd system.
Exact Address: 750 Main St, 02139
Frequently Asked Questions regarding this position
You will be at the forefront of materials research. You will use methods such as NMR, GPC, and FTIR, evaluate the data independently, and present your results directly to the team. Ideally, you already have experience with at least two of these techniques.
Cambridge is a dynamic market. MacroCycle won't leave you on your own: the team actively helps you find safe and affordable housing as close to the workplace as possible, so you can focus entirely on your research.
You are part of an MIT spin-off. This means access to exclusive networking events in Cambridge/Boston, regular team lunches, and the chance to experience true deep-tech entrepreneurship first-hand.
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