C-Dots Nanotec | UF Innovate – The Hub | Gainesville, FL

Position: Part-Time Internship
Number of Positions: 1–2 interns
Hours: Approximately 10 hours per week, with flexibility around class schedules
Start Date: As soon as possible
Duration: Initial project-based internship, with potential for extension depending on performance, project needs, and funding availability

About C-Dots Nanotec

C-Dots Nanotec is a nanotechnology startup based at UF Innovate – The Hub in Gainesville, Florida. We develop carbon-based nanoparticles (carbon dots) for applications in biomedical sciences, energy, agriculture, and other emerging technologies.

We are seeking dependable, detail-oriented Chemistry or Chemical Engineering students to support the day-to-day operation of our nanotechnology laboratory. This position offers hands-on experience in laboratory operations, chemical safety, nanoparticle synthesis, and analytical instrumentation.

We place the highest priority on reliability, practical laboratory safety awareness, and attention to detail. Prior experience with specialized analytical instruments is not required. We are happy to train motivated students who follow procedures carefully, take responsibility for their work, and understand the importance of maintaining a safe and organized laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory maintenance: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, including routine cleaning and upkeep of laboratory equipment and work areas.
• Chemical inventory: Monitor laboratory supplies and chemicals, maintain accurate inventory records, and help organize chemical storage.
• EHS and safety compliance: Assist with EHS documentation and reporting, chemical inventory updates, safety records, and other laboratory compliance activities.
• Chemical waste management: Help segregate, label, document, and store chemical waste according to established procedures and UF EHS requirements.
• Laboratory preparation: Prepare solutions and materials, organize supplies, and assist with routine laboratory tasks.
• Nanomaterial synthesis: Learn and assist with the synthesis, preparation, and processing of carbon dots and related materials under supervision.
• Analytical instrumentation: Receive training in UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and other analytical techniques as needed.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, equipment logs, chemical records, and experimental documentation.
• General research support: Assist with sample preparation, routine experiments, and other research and development activities.

Qualifications
Required

• Currently enrolled in a Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or closely related undergraduate or graduate program.
• Basic laboratory skills and familiarity with common laboratory equipment and procedures.
• Practical understanding of laboratory safety principles, including appropriate PPE, chemical handling, hazard awareness, and safe work practices.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow written procedures, instructions, and safety protocols consistently.
• Dependability, organization, and a responsible approach to assigned tasks.
• Willingness to ask questions when unsure and promptly communicate safety concerns, mistakes, spills, or unexpected conditions.
• Ability to work independently on routine assigned tasks while recognizing when guidance or approval is needed.

Preferred, but Not Required

• Previous experience in a chemistry, materials science, or nanotechnology laboratory.
• Familiarity with UV–Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, or other analytical instruments.
• Experience with chemical inventory management, laboratory housekeeping, or chemical waste handling.

Prior spectroscopy experience is not necessary. We value candidates who demonstrate sound laboratory judgment, consistent safety practices, reliability, and a willingness to learn more than candidates who have used a particular instrument but may need stronger safety or organizational habits.

Training and Safety
Applicable UF and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) online training requirements must be completed before undertaking activities that require them. Candidates should also have a practical understanding of laboratory safety beyond completing online training.

Additional laboratory-specific instruction and hands-on training will be provided as appropriate. All work must follow established procedures, applicable safety requirements, and supervisor guidance. Interns will not be expected to independently perform unfamiliar procedures or handle hazardous materials without appropriate training and authorization.

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience in nanotechnology research and carbon-dot synthesis.
• Training in UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy.
• Practical experience with laboratory organization, chemical inventory, waste management, and EHS documentation.
• Exposure to research and development in an early-stage technology company.
• Opportunities to develop laboratory, documentation, problem-solving, and professional skills.

How to Apply
Interested students should email their résumé and a brief introduction to elif@cdotsnanotec.com, describing their academic background, lab experience, availability, and interest in the position.

Please highlight any experience demonstrating careful laboratory work, safe chemical handling, reliability, organization, and attention to detail. Specialized instrumentation experience is welcome but not required.

We welcome motivated students who take safety seriously, follow procedures carefully, and want to contribute to a well-organized and productive research laboratory.