2027 Future Talent Program - Protein & Structural Chemistry - Intern

About the role

The Structural Chemistry groups use X-ray crystallography and Cryo-electron microscopy to determine structures of drug/target complexes, biologics, and other relevant biological macromolecules to enable structure-based drug discovery. The successful candidate will work to support drug discovery with structural information.

Responsibilities

• Perform preparative protein purification
• Characterize proteins using SDS-PAGE, spectroscopic and analytical chromatographic methods
• Conduct biochemical and biophysical pre-crystallization assays
• Perform crystallization screening and crystal optimization
• Execute crystal harvesting and grid preparation for Cryo-EM
• Conduct data collection, processing, and structure determination
• Perform critical analysis of protein-ligand structural data
• Maintain accurate electronic notebook recording
• Follow safe laboratory practices
• Present data and interpretations to a team of scientists
• Attend departmental and team meetings to gain perspective on the drug development process

Required qualifications

• Currently pursuing a BS/BA or Master's/Ph.D. degree in a related field with demonstrated interest/experience in research areas relevant to the drug discovery process
• Basic laboratory skills and research experience in areas such as: structural biology, protein biochemistry, biophysics, BioNMR, mass spectrometry, molecular biology, protein expression and purification, protein characterization using biochemical and biophysical techniques, and safe lab practices
• Completed at least two years of studies toward BS/BA degree or at least 1 year toward Master's/PhD at time of internship
• Currently enrolled in an academic program at the time of application and continuing education for at least 1 semester after internship completion
• Available for full-time employment for 10-12 weeks during June - August 2027

Preferred qualifications

• Significant interest in protein structure/function
• Experience with preparation of challenging biological macromolecules such as membrane proteins
• Experience characterizing proteins using functional assays or techniques that measure ligand binding
• GPA of 3.0 or higher

Pay

The salary range for this role is $39,108 through $111,111.

Schedule

This is a paid internship targeted to start in June 2027 and run for 10-12 weeks.