Summer Intern 2027, Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Summary
The Vertex DMPK Intern is an 11-week experiential training program for students enrolled in a degree program. The intern will support laboratory research in drug metabolism and enzymology within the Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) team, working alongside experienced scientists to conduct experiments investigating how enzymes interact with and metabolize potential medicines.
Job description
Your Impact
The Vertex DMPK Intern is an 11-week experiential training program for students enrolled in a degree program. The intern will support laboratory research in drug metabolism and enzymology within the Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) team, working alongside experienced scientists to conduct experiments investigating how enzymes interact with and metabolize potential medicines.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with in vitro drug metabolism and enzyme activity experiments under supervision.
- Support molecular biology and in vitro transfection workflows as needed for research studies.
- Prepare reagents, assay materials, and samples according to established procedures.
- Record experimental methods and results, organize data, and share observations with the team.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized workspace.
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field.
- Relevant laboratory coursework or hands-on laboratory experience.
- Understanding of basic biochemical and molecular biology concepts.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental protocols.
- Ability to work on-site during the summer internship.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future.
- Must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before May 2027.
- Must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from May – August 2027.
Program Details
- Full-time, paid internship
- $23.00 – 32.00 USD/hour
- Program Dates: May – August 2027
- Application Deadline: January 15th, 2027
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field
- Relevant laboratory coursework or hands-on laboratory experience
- Understanding of basic biochemical and molecular biology concepts
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental protocols
- Ability to work on-site during the summer internship
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future
- Must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before May 2027
- Must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from May – August 2027
Benefits
- Onsite gym access
- Group exercise classes
- Commuter benefits
- Free breakfast
- Career development opportunities
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Paid time off
- Educational assistance
- Student loan repayment
- 401(k)
- Matching charitable donations
Company overview
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is a global biotechnology company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1989. The company specializes in discovering, developing, and commercializing transformative medicines for serious diseases, with a primary focus on cystic fibrosis (CF). Vertex has pioneered breakthrough therapies including TRIKAFTA/KAFTRIO, SYMDEKO/SYMKEVI, ORKAMBI, and KALYDECO, which collectively treat approximately 90% of CF patients. Beyond CF, the company has expanded its portfolio to include treatments for sickle cell disease, transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia, acute pain, and has robust clinical pipelines in APOL1-mediated kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, myotonic dystrophy type 1, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Vertex employs approximately 6,100 people globally and maintains research facilities in San Diego, California, and Milton Park, Oxfordshire, England. The company is publicly traded on NASDAQ (VRTX) and is recognized as one of the industry's top workplaces, consistently earning accolades for its innovative culture and patient-focused approach to drug development.