2026 Summer Intern - Discovery Chemistry

2026 Summer Intern - Discovery Chemistry

Department Summary

The Discovery Chemistry department drives early-stage therapeutic innovation by designing and synthesizing novel small molecules. Our team focuses on creating drug candidates that precisely modulate biological targets to treat serious diseases. We are at the forefront of pioneering new chemical matter that ultimately forms the foundation for Genentech's next generation of medicines.

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

The Opportunity

• Interface with industrial chemists to explore and refine chemistry towards scaffolds relevant to medicinal chemistry.

• Perform hands-on synthetic work and optimization where necessary to advance an internship project.

• Gain experience with chemical synthesis techniques, including chemical catalysis and reactions essential to a professional career in medicinal chemistry.

• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving to achieve project goals.

• Contribute to Genentech’s culture of scientific curiosity and discovery via cross-department presentations.

Program Highlights

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

• Program start dates are May/June, 2026.

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

• Ownership of a challenging and impactful project.

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

Who You Are

Required Education: Must be pursuing a Bachelor's Degree (enrolled student).

Required Majors: Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field.

Required Skills: 

• Experience with multi-step small molecule organic synthesis.

• Familiarity with modern techniques for small molecule purification and analysis (NMR, LCMS).

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

• Complements our culture and the standards that guide our daily behavior & decisions: Integrity, Courage, and Passion.

Relocation benefits are not available for this job posting. 

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of  California is $29.00-$33.00 hour. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This position also qualifies for paid holiday time off benefits.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.