About the role#
This internship is part of the Future Talent Program within the Exploratory Vaccines-Regulated Bioanalytics group. You will contribute to the development of a novel multiplex antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) assay. The project aims to simultaneously evaluate functional antibody responses against multiple respiratory vaccine antigens. This 12-week program offers hands-on experience in immunology assay development, flow cytometry, and vaccine bioanalytics.
What you'll do#
- Perform laboratory experiments to support the development of a multiplex ADCP assay.
- Prepare and characterize antigen-coated fluorescent bead reagents.
- Conduct cell-based functional assays using THP-1 cells and vaccine study samples.
- Support flow cytometry sample acquisition and data analysis.
- Evaluate assay performance, reproducibility, and multiplex feasibility.
- Analyze experimental data using Excel and other analytical software tools.
- Collaborate with scientists to troubleshoot and optimize assay conditions.
- Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and experimental records.
- Prepare technical summaries and present project outcomes at the end-of-summer intern symposium.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in Immunology, Microbiology, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline.
- Basic laboratory experience in immunology, molecular biology, or cell biology.
- Familiarity with aseptic laboratory practices.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Ability to analyze data using Microsoft Excel or equivalent software.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific rigor.
- Preferred experience includes flow cytometry, cell culture, immunogenicity assays, FlowJo, antibody effector functions, multiplex platforms, and data visualization software like GraphPad Prism, R, Python, or JMP.
Location & details#
- Location: Lower Gwynedd Township, Pennsylvania, United States.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Employment Type: Full-time.
- Compensation: This is a paid internship.
About MSD
MSD is a pharmaceutical manufacturing company founded in 1891. It develops medicines and vaccines for both humans and animals. The organization operates globally and maintains its headquarters in Rahway, New Jersey. It employs over 39,000 people.
How to get in at MSD
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