Spring Co-Op, Biomarker

About the Role

Boehringer Ingelheim is seeking a talented and innovative Fall Co-Op candidate to join the Biomarker Discovery group within the Immunology and Respiratory Research Therapeutic Area in Ridgefield, CT. As an Immunology and Respiratory Co-Op, you will work with scientists to characterize altered signaling and functional responses of patient-derived fibroblasts compared to healthy donors. This work will support disease understanding and pathogenesis, including alterations in mechano-sensing, cellular signaling, and fibroblast–immune cell cross-talk. In parallel, you will have the opportunity to support translational pharmacology efforts by linking preclinical and in vitro model systems to Phase I clinical trials through translational biomarker discovery.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate a strong scientific understanding of and interest in one or more of the following areas: immunology, fibrosis, cell biology, and translational biomarker discovery.
• Characterize SSc patient-derived fibroblasts, identifying dysregulation in receptors, signaling pathways, and cellular function contributing to disease pathogenesis.
• Support target engagement and pharmacodynamic biomarker discovery efforts to translate preclinical findings into patient-relevant insights.
• Analyze experimental data; process and communicate results clearly and accurately.
• Comply with applicable regulations and maintain proper records in accordance with SOPs and company policies.

Requirements

• Must be a current graduate or advanced degree student in good academic standing.
• Major must be related to the field of Co-Op focus: immunology, fibrosis, cellular biology, or molecular biology.
• Student must be enrolled at an accredited college or university for the duration of the co-op.
• Overall cumulative minimum GPA from last completed quarter/semester of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) preferred.
• Graduate and advanced degree students must have completed at least 9 credit hours at current college or university.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction.
• Must be willing to take a drug test and post-offer physical (if required).
• Must be 18 years of age or older.

Skills

• Background in immunology or cellular biology preferred.
• Experience with cell lines and/or primary cell culture required.
• Experience in high-content imaging and cell painting and analysis.
• Hands-on experience with relevant in vitro assays (e.g., flow cytometry, ELISA/MSD/AlphaLISA, Western blot, DNA/RNA isolation, qPCR, functional assays).
• Strong willingness to learn from scientists across disciplines.
• Ability to troubleshoot both independently and within a team environment.
• Excellent record-keeping skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a multi-disciplinary and collaborative environment.
• Additional skills and experiences that demonstrate strong soft skills are highly encouraged.
• Inquisitive and open-minded.

About the Company

With us, you can develop your own path in a company with a culture that knows our differences are our strengths—and break new ground in the drive to make millions of lives better. Here, your development is our priority. Supporting you to build a career as part of a workplace that is independent, authentic, and bold, while tackling challenging work in a respectful and friendly environment where everyone is valued and welcomed.

Alongside, you have access to programs and groups that ensure your health and wellbeing are looked after—as we make major investments to drive global accessibility to healthcare. By being part of a team that is constantly innovating, you'll be helping to transform lives for generations.