2026 Future Talent Program - Animal Health Research & Development Summer - Intern

Merck & Co. • De Soto, KS

102d • $39,600 - $105,500 • Onsite

About The Position

The Future Talent Program features internships that last up to 12 weeks and will include one or more projects. These opportunities in our Animal Health Division can provide you with great development and a chance to see if we are the right company for your long-term goals. Our Company is offering a summer internship opportunity at our De Soto, Kansas Research & Development facility as a member of a research team developing new solutions for protection of cattle against infectious disease pathogens. In this role, the intern will learn and perform laboratory procedures used during the development of vaccines, which may include but not be limited to bacterial and virological assays, tissue culture, ELISA, in vitro protein expression, virus purification, serological assays and PCR. The internship may also involve work with animals.

Requirements

• Candidates must be currently enrolled in Animal Science, Agribusiness, Veterinary School, or Animal Health related degree program.
• Candidates must have completed at least 2 years of college course work by June 2026.
• Candidate must be available for full-time employment for 9-12 weeks during the months of May - August 2026.
• Candidate must be committed to making an active contribution to team goals.
• Candidate must be 20 years of age or older at the start of the internship.

Nice To Haves

• Candidate should have experience working in a science laboratory and applicable safety procedures.
• Candidate should understand general microbiological, biochemical, immunological principles.
• Candidate should have general computer skills in word processing, data management, and graphics.
• Candidate should have good communication skills and the ability to keep accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Learn and perform laboratory procedures used during the development of vaccines.
• Conduct bacterial and virological assays.
• Engage in tissue culture and ELISA.
• Participate in in vitro protein expression and virus purification.
• Perform serological assays and PCR.
• Work with animals as part of the research team.

Benefits

• Internship experience in a leading company in Animal Health.
• Opportunity to work on real projects that contribute to team goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree