CELL ENGINEERING INTERN

Location: Kalamazoo, MI

Timeline:

Applications: November– February 2021

Interviews: January – March 2021, on a rolling basis

Offers: Late January – March 2021

Internship: 40 hours/week for 10-13 weeks, typically May – August

Internship Summary:

At Zoetis, the health and safety of our colleagues, contractors and interns is our top priority. We make decisions based on these guiding principles: Be Safe, Feel Safe, Feel Supported. As a Zoetis intern, you can expect Zoetis to abide by safety guidelines from the CDC, aligned with local guidance.

The Cell Engineering intern will assist in the creation and screening of modified cell lines using gene-editing (CRISPR) tools. Specific genes will be modified using this recently developed molecular editing tool. Changes will be introduced to make improved cell lines for animal vaccine use and production in research and manufacturing. Design and conduct of molecular engineering experiments will be assisted by expert scientists within Zoetis R&D labs.

Internship Job Duties:

• Support novel cell engineering CRISPR technology based on modification of eukaryotic cell lines. Initial work will involve growth of a modified cell line followed by genotypic and phenotypic characterization.
• This will include assessment of genetic modifications by PCR and DNA sequencing using molecular biology techniques.
• Virus replication within cell lines will be determined by culture, cell sorting, and viral titration methods.
• Assist creation of a modified cell line using gene-editing (CRISPR) tools. Specific genes will be modified using this recently developed molecular editing tool. Changes will be screened to select improved cells.

Internship Qualifications:

• Must be self-motivated with tissue culture experience and a solid working knowledge of virus propagation.
• Must be proficient at aseptic technique, molecular cloning, DNA preparation, PCR, gene analysis software, and be familiar with cell transfection and fluorescence microscopy.
• Enrolled in a MS or PhD program related to Cellular Microbiology, Eukaryotic Genetics, or Genomics.
• Training in bioinformatics/genomics/transcriptomics is a plus but not essential.
• Enrolled in a degree program during the Spring term preceding internship
• Completion of at least one year of undergraduate studies and a 3.0 GPA or higher
• At least 18 years of age and authorized to work in the U.S.
• Successfully pass a background check and drug screen
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, problem solving & analytical skills