Summer Intern, Mechanistic Pharmacology

The Position

The Summer Intern, Mechanistic Pharmacology - Cellular Trafficking & Assay Development will support discovery research efforts within Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals by contributing to ongoing studies focused on RNAi-based therapeutics. This internship provides hands-on laboratory experience, exposure to experimental design, and opportunities to develop scientific communication skills while working closely with experienced scientists. 

This is an 11-week Summer Internship Program paying $21.00 per hour and requires full-time, onsite work five days per week at the designated location.

Responsibilities

• Complete onboarding activities including shadowing team members, skill assessments, learning core laboratory techniques, and reviewing foundational scientific background.
• Execute one of two predefined research projects within the Mechanistic Pharmacology group.
• Perform experiments to interrogate constraints on TRiM platform efficacy using techniques such as
  • mammalian cell culture
  • dose-response curve generation,
  • Quantitative PCR (qPCR)
  • fluorescence-based uptake assessment (microscopy or flow cytometry)
  • cellular fractionation
  • western blotting.
• Analyze experimental data and maintain a well-organized laboratory notebook in Benchling.
• Participate in group discussions, literature review, and hypothesis generation.
• Present project updates in weekly group meetings.
• Prepare final deliverables, including a scientific poster and a ~20-minute presentation summarizing project objectives, results, and learnings.

Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited university or college and majoring in a scientific discipline such as Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, or Engineering.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including comfort presenting in group settings.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Willingness and ability to spend 75% of the workday walking the facility and 25% at a desk.

Preferred:

• Fundamental understanding of cell biology and biochemical principles.
• Previous laboratory experience and familiarity with basic lab techniques.
• Curiosity, enthusiasm for discovery science, and willingness to learn new approaches and techniques.