About the role#
The Discovery Sample Management (DSM) group at MSD enables drug discovery by building synthesis-to-assay workflows and applying automation designs. This summer internship offers an undergraduate student the chance to learn how to adapt laboratory instrumentation and robotics to support the drug discovery process. You will work within a team to operate and optimize benchtop robotics and large-scale automation systems.
What you'll do#
- Interface with scientific staff to understand workflows and associated automated systems.
- Create, troubleshoot, and test protocols on instrumentation.
- Optimize and calibrate laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
- Develop data transfer tools to help integrate instruments with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
- Observe and learn various sample management and quality control workflows.
- Operate and optimize benchtop robotics and large-scale automation systems.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, or Engineering.
- Experience working in a laboratory setting.
- A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher.
- Strong interest in utilizing laboratory robotics and automation.
- Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, Visual Basic, or HTML.
- Previous experience with tools like Spotfire or Pipeline Pilot.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site role based in Rahway, New Jersey.
- The internship lasts 11-12 weeks, beginning in May or June and concluding in August 2027.
- This position does not offer visa sponsorship.
About MSD
MSD is a pharmaceutical manufacturing company founded in 1891. It develops medicines and vaccines for both humans and animals. The organization operates globally and maintains its headquarters in Rahway, New Jersey. It employs over 39,000 people.
How to get in at MSD
Applying to MSD early provides a distinct advantage because recruiters often review the first wave of candidates before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first and get seen before the pile grows. Reaching out to the right person can help your application stand out from the crowd. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves your response rates.


