Biologics Formulation Intern
Zoetis
Summary
We are seeking a talented Biologics Formulations Summer Intern to join our team and contribute to the development of a robust moisture-prediction model for lyophilized drug products. In this role, you will support formulation development and data-driven research efforts aimed at improving the stability, quality, and performance of lyophilized pharmaceuticals.
Job description
Internship Summary
This 10-12-week internship will focus on developing a rapid, non-destructive Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy method to measure moisture content in lyophilized drug products as a Process Analytical Technology (PAT) tool. The intern will prepare samples across a range of moisture levels, collect paired Karl Fischer (KF) and NIR data, and develop and evaluate a chemometric model, such as partial least squares (PLS) regression. The project aims to enable faster, more efficient moisture analysis and support the future implementation of 100% vial testing and improved lyophilization process development.
Internship Job Duties
- Familiarize and operate freeze-drying/lyophilization equipment and prepare formulations across a defined range of moisture-content targets.
- Perform Karl Fischer (KF) titration and acquire Near-Infrared (NIR) spectra using established sample-handling and laboratory procedures.
- Develop, optimize, and evaluate chemometric models-such as PLS regression-to correlate NIR spectra with KF moisture measurements.
- Process and analyze experimental data, assess model performance, and support method optimization to minimize false-positive and false-negative results.
- Conduct laboratory experiments under supervision, document findings, and contribute to technical reports and posters/presentations and analytical-method documentation supporting future PAT implementation.
Internship Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, or a related field
- Experience working in a laboratory setting, operating laboratory equipment, recording data
- Interested in learning Lyophilization techniques, PAT, spectroscopy (NIR/IR), and/or analytical methods
- Comfortable working with data (e.g. Excel, JMP, or similar)
- Detail-oriented, structured, and able to document experimental work
- Effective communication skills
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, or a related field
- Experience working in a laboratory setting, operating laboratory equipment, recording data
- Interested in learning Lyophilization techniques, PAT, spectroscopy (NIR/IR), and/or analytical methods
- Comfortable working with data (e.g. Excel, JMP, or similar)
- Detail-oriented, structured, and able to document experimental work
- Effective communication skills
Benefits
- Healthcare Benefits
- Retirement Savings Benefits
- Employee Well-Being Programs
- Family and Lifestyle Resources
Company overview
Zoetis is a global leader in animal health, dedicated to advancing care for animals and the people who care for them. Originally established as the animal health division of Pfizer, Zoetis became an independent public company in 2013. The company develops, manufactures, and commercializes a comprehensive portfolio of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and other health products for both livestock and companion animals. With operations in more than 100 countries, Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers, and pet owners worldwide. The company's product portfolio includes anti-infectives, vaccines, parasiticides, dermatology products, and other therapeutic solutions. Zoetis invests significantly in research and development to address unmet medical needs in animal health, focusing on areas such as pain management, infectious diseases, and chronic conditions. The company's commitment to innovation and quality has established it as a trusted partner in the animal health industry, contributing to food security and the well-being of companion animals globally.