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, 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, 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

Roche is a Swiss multinational healthcare company and a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, founded in 1896 and headquartered in Basel, Switzerland. As the world's largest biotech company and the fifth-largest pharmaceutical company by revenue, Roche operates through two primary divisions: Pharmaceuticals and Diagnostics. The company is renowned for its leadership in personalized healthcare, combining strengths in both drug development and diagnostic testing to deliver tailored treatments for patients. Roche maintains a strong focus on oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, and central nervous system disorders, with a portfolio that includes over 30 medicines on the World Health Organization's Model Lists of Essential Medicines. The company owns significant subsidiaries including Genentech, Chugai Pharmaceuticals, Ventana Medical Systems, and Foundation Medicine. With approximately 103,000 employees worldwide and operations in over 100 countries, Roche has established itself as a leader in cancer treatments globally while maintaining a robust pipeline of innovative therapies and diagnostic solutions. The company's commitment to sustainability has been recognized through ten consecutive years as Group Leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices within the Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology & Life Sciences Industry.