Oligo Synthesis and Purification Intern

Job Title: Oligo Synthesis and Purification Intern

Location: South San Francisco, CA (local candidates only)

Reports to: Scientist, Nucleic Acid Chemistry

Full/Part-Time: Summer Intern

Regular/Temporary: Temporary

 

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Summer Intern to join our team, where you will assist in the synthesis and purification of oligonucleotides. This hands-on role will offer the opportunity to gain practical experience in laboratory techniques related to oligo synthesis and purification, contributing directly to our research and development efforts. 

How will this role contribute to the overall team goals and interface with others:

This role will play a key part in supporting the team’s goal of producing high-quality oligonucleotides for research and production purposes. As a summer intern, you will work closely with experienced scientists and technicians in the lab, learning essential techniques and ensuring the quality of synthesized products. Your work will directly interface with team members in oligo synthesis, quality control, and laboratory operations, contributing to efficient project execution and deadlines. 

What You Will Accomplish:

• Assist in the preparation, synthesis, and purification of oligonucleotides under the guidance of scientists. 

• Conduct quality control testing to ensure the purity and integrity of synthesized products. 

• Maintain detailed lab records, including experimental setups, results, and observations. 

• Participate in troubleshooting and optimizing oligo synthesis and purification processes. 

• Support lab organization, inventory management, and general housekeeping tasks to maintain a productive work environment. 

• Gain exposure to laboratory instrumentation such as oligo synthesizers, HPLC, and other purification tools. 

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled or anticipated to graduate within 1 year from a graduate degree program (Master’s or PhD) in chemistry. Recent graduates (within 18 months of post-degree) are also encouraged to apply. 

• No prior industrial experience is required, but previous laboratory experience related to chemistry is preferred.

• Strong academic background with demonstrated interest in chemistry and laboratory work. 

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with others to achieve common goals. 

Technical Requirements and Skills:

• Foundational knowledge of oligonucleotide synthesis/chemistry, including familiarity with synthesis workflows and purification techniques. 

• Hands-on experience or exposure to automated synthesizers and related instrumentation is desirable. 

• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment such as HPLC systems is preferred.  

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in conducting experimental procedures. 

• Strong organizational and documentation skills to ensure procedural compliance and support lab safety standards. 

• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, for reporting experimental findings and engaging in team discussions.
• A motivated and proactive approach to learning advanced techniques and contributing to problem-solving efforts in the lab. 

Compensation: The hourly rate for this position is $30.00/hr (pursuing MS), $35.00 (pursuing PhD), and $27.00/hr for Bachelor’s degree. 

Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion

SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.