• Rocket Test Site Inspirational History:

This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation and promotion of the Rocket Test Site’s legacy at Edwards AFB. Open to individuals of all majors and levels (18+ and high school graduates), the project focuses on enhancing the accessibility and impact of historical artifacts and displays. Under the guidance of Dr. J. Shelley, a seasoned mechanical engineer and educator with 33 years of experience at the Rocket Site, and co-mentor Joseph Jones, a skilled cinematographer and audio engineer, the intern will work to modernize and enrich the site’s Heritage Room content. This includes updating technical information, improving artifact displays, and creating engaging multimedia narratives to celebrate the site’s contributions to America’s space-faring history.

• Synthesis of Ionic Liquids for Various Aerospace Applications:

This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the synthesis and characterization of ionic liquids for advanced aerospace applications, specifically high-thrust electrospray propulsion. Open to undergraduate (post-first year) and graduate students majoring in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or similar fields, the project is led by Dr. Kamran Ghiassi, Senior Research Chemist and leader of the Applied Materials Group at AFRL’s Rocket Propulsion Division. Interns will gain valuable experience in organic synthesis, analytical techniques (NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA), and the scale-up of novel compounds. This work supports innovation in satellite propulsion technologies and provides opportunities for professional growth, including potential contributions to publications, patents, and conference presentations.