University of Wisconsin–Madison

PhD Student Research & Development PhD Intern at PPG Industries

PPG Industries Pittsburgh PA At PPG, innovation is not just a process, but the core of everything we do. As a global leader in paints, coatings, and specialty materials, we are continually pushing the boundaries of technology to create breakthrough solutions that transform the market and improve everyday life. Are you a Ph.D. candidate ready to dive into an engaging, opportunity-rich environment? If so, we invite you to learn more about the possibility of an industrial career in R&D at PPG. Here, your contributions go beyond the lab, translating into tangible innovations that redefine the marketplace. Our Core R&D facility located in Allison Park serves as the cradle of creativity where scientific theories turn into commercialized products. Embark on a journey where your passion meets our innovation. Begin exploring an extraordinary career with PPG today! PPG is a paints, coatings, and specialty materials leader serving a number of diverse customer markets such as construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets, and aftermarkets. PPG operates and innovates in more than 75 countries around the globe. Our emphasis is on the development of breakthrough products and processes, investment in state-of-art manufacturing facilities, and profitable global expansion into adjacent and new markets; while continuing to provide customers with the best services and products of the highest quality. Research and Development activities exist in, but are not limited to, the following areas:
  • Polymer synthesis and formulation of both organic and inorganic materials for coatings applications and beyond.
  • Analytical testing of developmental materials and commercial products, including customer and regulatory-related work.
  • Unique color technologies for coatings.
  • Design and development for future trends in the application of liquid, powder and solid coatings. Including automation, robotics and sensing ‘smart’ systems.
  • Development of chromate free anti-corrosive coatings and sealants for the aerospace and defense industries.
  • Corrosion science, surface chemistry, and electrochemistry.
  • New products/technologies aligned with mega-trends for e-mobility, vehicle electrification and autonomous driving, including materials to improve performance and safety of lithium-ion batteries, fuel cells and electric vehicles.
  • 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing.
  • Development of high-performance adhesives, sealants, and thermal management solutions.
  • Interfacial and Materials Science inclusive of and surface characterizations.
  • Materials science, including the ability to synthesize, formulate, and engineer specialty coatings and materials for use in high-yield, customer-centric manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities of a PhD Researcher

  • Solve problems through the application of knowledge of appropriate scientific, experimental, and statistical methods.
  • Initiate and champion major projects, as well as conceive and develop theories through application of advanced specialized scientific knowledge.
  • Planning, directing, coordinating, and conducting the experimental work vital to meet project goals and objectives in developing new products for the marketplace.
  • Providing technical support for a commercialized product in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Effectively communicating science and technological features to global partners.

Qualifications

  • Pursuing a Ph.D. in a relevant field such as Chemistry, Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, etc.
  • Ability to search and interpret literature as well as be cognizant of competitor technology through intellectual property (patent) searches.
  • Support from your advisor to take the time away from the university and further your exposure to what a career in industrial research can look like for you.
  • Desire for some Industrial experience to help map your career.

About us:

Here at PPG, we make it happen, and we seek candidates of the highest integrity and professionalism who share our values, with the commitment and drive to strive today to do better than yesterday – everyday. PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™ Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @ PPG on Twitter.

The PPG Way

Every single day at PPG: We partner with customers to create mutual value. We are insightful, dedicated and proactive. We have intimate knowledge of the market and our customers. We focus on practical solutions that make a difference. We are “One PPG” to the world. We are better and stronger together. We leverage our scale to reach new markets and introduce innovative technologies as we differentiate and disrupt our markets. We trust our people every day, in every way. We enable and empower our people to make the right decisions. We are inclusive, transparent and respectful. Our feedback is clear and actionable. We make it happen. We have a passion for winning. We achieve. We deliver with discipline and integrity. We bring our best energy to our work. We decide and act intelligently and quickly. We run it like we own it. We respect one another by being responsible and accountable. We always act in the best interest of our company, customers, shareholders and our communities. We do better today than yesterday – everyday. We continuously learn. We develop our people to grow our businesses. We are One PPG PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email recruiting@ppg.com. PPG values your feedback on our recruiting process. We encourage you to visit Glassdoor.com and provide feedback on the process, so that we can do better today than yesterday. Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the interview and hiring process.

How to Apply

This internship is offered through the Graduate School Industry Internship Program. Carefully read the eligibility and application information on the Graduate School Industry Internship Program webpage.