Technology Development Co-op Student – Electrochemical Systems
Mangrove Lithium, a Vancouver based company, has developed a breakthrough platform for the most cost-effective production of battery grade lithium hydroxide and carbonate from diverse input streams and assets. Mangrove’s modular solution can be scaled to any capacity and co-located with upstream lithium producers or cathode and cell manufacturers. The platform technology is being commercialized for the conversion of waste brines to chemicals and desalinated water. The company recently attracted funding through Breakthrough Energy, BMW i Ventures, and BDC Capital and is working towards the deployment of a first-of-a-kind commercial plant.
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and curious Technology Development Co-op Student to join our Technology Development Department. This position is ideal for undergraduate students who are passionate about electrochemical systems, advanced materials, and clean energy technologies.
This co-op position is available for a 4–12 month work term and provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in an industrial R&D environment. Working alongside experienced scientists and engineers, the successful candidate will contribute to the development, testing, and characterization of electrochemical systems and materials while gaining practical experience in laboratory research, data analysis, and technology development.
Responsibilities
- Assist with the preparation, assembly, and testing of bench-scale electrochemical cells and related systems.
- Prepare laboratory solutions, samples, and reagents according to established procedures.
- Support electrochemical testing, materials characterization, and analytical experiments.
- Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data using laboratory software and spreadsheets.
- Assist in developing, improving, and documenting laboratory testing procedures and protocols.
- Prepare technical summaries, reports, and presentations of experimental results.
- Perform routine calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment under supervision.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and inventory to support ongoing research activities.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
- Collaborate with scientists and engineers on technology development projects and participate in technical discussions and team meetings.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute ideas to enhance laboratory processes and experimental methods.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's degree program in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Eligible to participate in a recognized university co-op program.
- Completed at least the third year of an undergraduate program (preferred).
- Strong interest in electrochemical systems, batteries, clean energy technologies, or advanced materials.
- Experience working in undergraduate teaching or research laboratories.
- Familiarity with standard laboratory practices and safe chemical handling procedures.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and basic data analysis tools.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Laboratory experience with electrochemistry, batteries, electrolysers, fuel cells, or other electrochemical systems.
- Experience using analytical instrumentation such as potentiostats, FTIR, ICP, or similar techniques.
- Experience with data analysis software such as Origin, MATLAB, or Python is considered an asset.
- Previous undergraduate research or industrial laboratory experience is an asset.
What You'll Gain
- Hands-on experience in an industrial technology development environment.
- Mentorship from experienced scientists and engineers.
- Exposure to advanced electrochemical systems and energy storage technologies.
- Experience designing, conducting, and interpreting laboratory experiments.
- Opportunities to develop technical, analytical, and professional communication skills.
- Experience working in a collaborative, multidisciplinary R&D team focused on innovative clean energy solutions.
Desired Characteristics
- Curious, self-motivated, and eager to learn.
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
- Enthusiastic about solving technical challenges.
- Able to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
- Demonstrates initiative while also working effectively within a collaborative team.
- Committed to maintaining high standards of laboratory safety and quality.
