Software Intern, Autonomous Lab

About the role

Ginkgo Bioworks is constructing the world’s first "Total Autonomous Lab"—a facility where scientific work is requested by code and executed by robots, 24/7. We are looking for a Software Intern to help build the digital brain of this lab.

Responsibilities

• Enable "Protocols as Code": Develop and refine Python-based protocols using the Catalyst Client to control liquid handlers, plate readers, and robotic arms.
• Build the AI Scientist: Assist in the development of Catalyst Agent, our LLM-based interface that allows scientists to launch experiments using natural language.
• Integrate Lab Data: Work on data pipelines that automatically harvest, structure, and upload experimental data from RACs into our data lake for AI model training.
• Develop Device Drivers: Help integrate new hardware instruments into the Catalyst ecosystem, writing the drivers that allow our software to "talk" to new lab tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• No college degree necessary but some skills in coding or related areas required.
• Strong proficiency in Python; experience with hardware control or APIs is a plus.
• Enthusiasm for "Lab-in-the-Loop" technologies where AI models drive physical experimentation.
• Interest in biological data standards and laboratory automation.

Pay

The base salary range for this role is $37,700-$53,500. Actual pay within this range will depend on a candidate's skills, expertise, and experience.

Benefits

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental & vision coverage, health spending accounts, voluntary benefits, leave of absence policies, 8 paid holidays in addition to a full-week winter shutdown and unlimited Paid Time Off policy.