About the role#
The Future Talent Program offers a co-op experience for students to contribute to the invention, development, and implementation of biocatalysts. You will work within the Small Molecule Process Research & Development Department to support drug discovery and manufacturing. This program provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in a laboratory setting while working alongside company scientists.
What you'll do#
- Collaborate with scientists on projects involving biocatalysis, enzyme engineering, microfluidics, and fermentation.
- Develop novel proteins and enzyme-catalyzed reactions to support the synthesis of drug-like molecules.
- Solve technical challenges by applying expertise in chemistry, biology, and engineering.
- Participate in project team meetings to gain insight into the pharmaceutical research process.
- Maintain accurate electronic notebook records and follow safe laboratory practices.
- Present research findings in both oral and written formats.
What you'll need#
- Currently enrolled as a sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate student in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or Material Science.
- Completion of at least two years of undergraduate study by June 2027.
- Availability for a full-time, 4-6 month commitment starting in May 2027.
- Authorization to work in the United States. Please note that visa sponsorship is not available.
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred.
- Foundational laboratory skills, including experience with electronic lab notebooks and safety protocols.
- Exposure to chemistry laboratory techniques such as purification (chromatography, crystallization) and analytical methods (HPLC, NMR, mass spectrometry).
- Familiarity with fermentation processes, PCR techniques, biochemical assays, and data analysis.
- Experience with programming languages like Python or MATLAB and structural data visualization tools is a plus.
Location & details#
- This role is located in Rahway, New Jersey.
- The position is on-site and full-time for the Summer 2027 term.
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
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