About the role#
The Complex in Vitro Systems group is looking for a summer intern to help onboard and qualify a human in vitro multielectrode array (MEA) assay. This work focuses on the early prediction of compound-induced seizure liability. You will optimize 2D human iPSC-derived excitatory/inhibitory neuron and astrocyte co-cultures on high-density MEA platforms to capture rapid action potentials and network burst dynamics. This role helps establish a safety de-risking platform for early discovery pipelines by screening historical internal molecules and literature controls.
What you'll do#
- Onboard and optimize MEA experimental protocols for iPSC-derived neuronal cultures.
- Qualify the MEA assay using reference pro-convulsant and non-convulsant compounds to evaluate sensitivity and specificity.
- Evaluate plating densities and cell formulations.
- Execute acute and long-term compound dosing studies.
- Analyze complex neural spike and burst metrics to establish endpoints for in vitro seizure prediction.
- Analyze electrophysiological readouts to distinguish seizurogenic phenotypes from general neurotoxicity.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate MEA assay workflows into safety screening pipelines.
- Present experimental findings, assay performance metrics, and validation data at team meetings.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a PhD program.
- Degree in Neuroscience, Bioengineering, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related scientific discipline.
- Hands-on experience with aseptic cell culture techniques, preferably with primary mammalian neurons or human iPSC-derived neurons.
- Basic understanding of electrophysiology concepts and MEA systems or functional neural imaging.
- Familiarity with electrophysiology data analysis software, such as Axion Neural Metric Tool, R, or Python.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Alignment with our core standards of integrity, courage, and passion.
Location & details#
- Location: South San Francisco, California.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: Full-time, on-site.
About Genentech
Genentech is a biotechnology research company founded in 1976. Based in South San Francisco, the firm focuses on areas such as oncology, neuroscience, and immunology. It employs over 18,000 people across multiple locations in California and Oregon. The organization develops medicines for complex health conditions.
How to get in at Genentech
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