2026 Summer Intern - Synthetic Molecule Analytical Chemistry

2026 Summer Intern - Synthetic Molecule Analytical Chemistry

Department Summary

The Synthetic Molecule Analytical Chemistry (SMAC) department is part of the Synthetic Molecule Pharmaceutical Sciences (SMPS) organization. We advance analytical science to support the discovery, development, and manufacturing of synthetic molecular therapeutics.

Our mission is to deliver high-quality analytical data that guide molecular design, process development, and quality control. We apply state-of-the-art techniques—including chromatography, mass spectrometry, and NMR spectroscopy—to elucidate chemical structures, reaction mechanisms, and stability profiles. We are passionate about scientific rigor, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration to bring transformative medicines to patients.

This internship position is located in South San Francisco, on-site.  

The Opportunity

The intern will contribute to the development of real-time analytical strategies for meso-sized polymeric modalities. The project focuses on characterizing polymerization kinetics and cleavage mechanisms using an oxidative stress-responsive polymer platform.

• Develop and optimize analytical methods (HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis) for polymerization and cleavage kinetic studies.

• Conduct real-time kinetic monitoring and correlate optical response with structural changes.

• Perform data analysis and structural elucidation of polymer intermediates and degradation products using MS and NMR.

• Evaluate dispersity and reactivity trends to understand structure-function relationships.

• Summarize and present experimental findings to multidisciplinary teams within SMAC and partner groups.

• This internship offers hands-on experience with advanced analytical instrumentation and exposure to a cross-functional research environment focused on next-generation therapeutic modalities.

Program Highlights

• Intensive 12-weeks, full-time (40 hours per week) paid internship.

• Program start dates are in May/June (Summer).

• A stipend, based on location, will be provided to help alleviate costs associated with the internship.

• Ownership of challenging and impactful business-critical projects.

• Work with some of the most talented people in the biotechnology industry.

Who You Are (Required)

Required Education: You meet one of the following criteria:

• Must be pursuing a Bachelor's Degree (enrolled student).

• Must be pursuing a Master's Degree (enrolled student).

• Must be pursuing a PhD (enrolled student).

Required Majors:

• Chemistry and Biochemistry.

• Pharmaceutical Sciences.

• Material Science and Engineering or Chemical Engineering or other related field.

Required Skills:

• Foundational knowledge of organic or polymer chemistry.

• Basic understanding of analytical methods such as chromatography (HPLC/LC–MS) and spectroscopy (UV–Vis, NMR).

• Strong experimental and data interpretation skills.

• Effective written and verbal communication; ability to collaborate in a team setting.

• Enthusiasm for problem-solving and innovation in analytical chemistry.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

• Proficiency with literature research.

• Experience operating or interpreting data from LC–MS, NMR, or fluorescence spectroscopy is a plus.

• Prior laboratory experience in kinetic assays, polymer synthesis, degradable materials, and