Summary

The Complex in vitro Systems group is seeking a motivated intern to support the onboarding and qualification of a human in vitro multielectrode array (MEA) assay designed for early prediction of compound-induced seizure liability. The intern will optimize 2D human iPSC-derived excitatory/inhibitory neuron and astrocyte co-cultures on high-density MEA platforms to capture rapid, circuit-level action potentials and network burst dynamics, evaluate plating densities and cell formulations, execute acute and long-term compound dosing studies, and analyze multi-parametric electrophysiological readouts to distinguish specific seizurogenic phenotypes from general neurotoxicity.

Job description

The Opportunity

The Complex in vitro Systems group is seeking a motivated intern to support the onboarding and qualification of a human in vitro multielectrode array (MEA) assay designed for early prediction of compound-induced seizure liability. The intern will optimize 2D human iPSC-derived excitatory/inhibitory neuron and astrocyte co-cultures on high-density MEA platforms to capture rapid, circuit-level action potentials and network burst dynamics, evaluate plating densities and cell formulations, execute acute and long-term compound dosing studies, and analyze multi-parametric electrophysiological readouts to distinguish specific seizurogenic phenotypes from general neurotoxicity.

Responsibilities

Onboard and optimize microelectrode array (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.
Analyze complex neural spike and burst metrics to establish robust endpoints for in vitro seizure prediction.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate MEA assay workflows into routine safety screening pipelines.
Present experimental findings, assay performance metrics, and validation data at meetings.

Program Highlights

Intensive 12-weeks, full-time (40 hours per week) paid internship.
Program start dates are in May/June (Summer).
A stipend, based on location, will be provided to help alleviate costs associated with the internship.
Ownership of challenging and impactful business-critical projects.
Work with some of the most talented people in the biotechnology industry.

Requirements

Must be pursuing a PhD (enrolled student)
Required majors: 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 microelectrode array (MEA) systems or functional neural imaging
Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
Familiarity with electrophysiology data analysis software (e.g., Axion Neural Metric Tool, R, or Python scripting)

Benefits

Paid holiday time off
Stipend

Company overview

Genentech, founded in 1976 and now a member of the Roche Group, is widely recognized as the pioneer of the biotechnology industry. The company has been at the forefront of scientific innovation for nearly 50 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech's transformational discoveries include the first targeted antibody for cancer and the first medicine for primary progressive multiple sclerosis. With over 10,000 employees, the company operates from its South San Francisco headquarters and maintains a strong focus on oncology, immunology, neuroscience, ophthalmology, and infectious diseases. Genentech continues to pursue groundbreaking science while maintaining its startup spirit within the Roche organization, consistently delivering on its promise to improve patients' lives through innovative biopharmaceutical solutions.