About the role#
As a Pharmaceutical Lab Intern, you will join our team to support the experimental screening and analysis of protein and small molecule crystallization. You will work at the intersection of pharmaceutical chemistry, materials science, and experimental process design. This role involves hands-on contributions to mission-critical work within a collaborative team environment.
What you'll do#
- Perform purification of protein and protein complexes.
- Conduct purity and charge variant analysis using SDS-PAGE and capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF).
- Assess protein integrity before and after freeze-drying stress.
- Perform biophysical characterization of protein candidates using orthogonal analytical techniques to evaluate structure, stability, and interaction behavior.
- Conduct and scale-up crystallization screening of protein and protein complexes.
- Help optimize crystallization conditions through iterative testing.
- Report findings clearly to the broader R&D team.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an accredited bachelor's or graduate degree program in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or similar fields.
- At least 3 months of laboratory experience outside of a classroom, including safe chemical handling, use of personal protective equipment, and maintaining a lab notebook.
- Proven ability to execute experiments with hands-on skills in a research lab, internship, or REU setting.
- Familiarity with pharmaceutical crystallization and protein biochemistry.
- Coursework in Math and Physics, specifically Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, and Heat/Mass Transfer.
- Coursework in Chemistry, specifically Organic Chemistry, Thermodynamics, Kinetics, and Spectroscopy.
- Experience with lab techniques such as synthetic chemistry, distillations, and separations.
- Exposure to data analysis or programming tools like Python.
- Familiarity with biophysical characterization techniques such as DLS, nanoDSF, SEC, CD, or capillary electrophoresis.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship located in El Segundo, California.
- The term runs during the Summer 2027 season, between May and August, depending on your university schedule.
- This position is paid at an hourly rate of $33.00.
- We provide a housing stipend for interns relocating to the area and a commuter benefit.
About Varda Space Industries
Varda Space Industries operates in the defense and space manufacturing sector. The company focuses on orbital infrastructure, including pharmaceutical processing and reentry capsules. It produces items that require manufacturing in space, such as fiber optic cables and medical products. Founded in 2021, the firm maintains its headquarters in El Segundo, California. It currently employs over 250 people.
How to get in at Varda Space Industries
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