Internship Antifouling

R&D Internship – Sustainable Antifouling Coatings

Department: Research & Development

About the Internship

Antifouling coatings are essential in the maritime industry: they prevent marine organisms from settling on ship hulls, reducing fuel consumption and improving overall vessel efficiency. Traditional antifouling systems, however, rely on biocides which, despite their effectiveness, may pose environmental risks to marine ecosystems.

Driven by stricter regulations and a clear need for more sustainable solutions, the coatings industry is challenged to lower biocidal content while maintaining or even enhancing performance. During this internship, you will actively contribute to research that supports this shift toward cleaner and greener marine coatings.

Your Role

As an R&D intern, you will explore how innovative additives can help reduce the reliance on biocides in antifouling coatings. You will participate in hands-on laboratory work and formulation development, including:

• Preparing coating prototypes containing various additives

• Systematically adjusting formulations and additive loading levels

• Conducting laboratory experiments to evaluate additive performance and coating stability

• Collecting, analyzing, and documenting experimental data

• Proposing improvements and contributing to optimization of the formulations

This internship provides valuable experience in formulation science, materials research, and experimental design within the coating industry.

Who We Are Looking For

We are seeking a motivated, curious student who enjoys practical laboratory work and sustainable innovation.

You bring:

• Enrollment in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Science, Chemistry, or a related field

• Affinity with formulation chemistry, polymer science, or materials testing

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail

• A proactive and hands-on mindset

• The ability to work independently and collaboratively

What We Offer

• A challenging internship within an innovative and international R&D environment

• Guidance from experienced scientists and formulation experts

• A modern laboratory equipped with advanced research tools

• The opportunity to contribute to environmentally responsible coating technologies

• Internship compensation

Interested?

Please send your CV, motivation letter, and any questions to [contact person + email]. We look forward to learning how you can contribute to the future of sustainable antifouling coatings!

PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply. 
 
Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.