2026 Summer Intern - Radiochemistry/Organic Chemistry (Department of Translational Imaging)
About The Position
The Translational Imaging department accelerates drug discovery and development by developing non-invasive imaging strategies to visualize biodistribution and target engagement in vivo. Our team integrates chemistry, biology, and physics to design novel imaging agents and methodologies across multiple modalities, including MRI, Optical, CT, PET, and SPECT. We are dedicated to creating advanced chemical tools and imaging solutions that provide critical insights into disease biology and therapeutic efficacy. This internship position is located in South San Francisco, on-site. Synthesize and characterize novel small molecule precursors and standards (specifically bioorthogonal handles) for CNS imaging applications. Perform bioconjugation workflows to attach chemical handles to antibody fragments (VHH) and conduct rigorous purification. Evaluate the stability and reaction kinetics of imaging probes in complex biological environments. Gain experience with radiochemistry optimization and the development of pretargeting systems (e.g., TCO-Tetrazine). Apply critical thinking to troubleshoot synthetic routes and assay designs. Contribute to Genentech’s culture of scientific curiosity and discovery via cross-department presentations.
Requirements
- Must be pursuing a PhD (enrolled student).
- Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Chemical Biology, Organic Chemistry, or a related field.
- Strong foundation in organic synthesis and characterization of small molecules.
- Familiarity with modern analytical techniques (HPLC, LCMS, NMR etc.).
- Basic understanding of or experience with protein bioconjugation techniques.
- Ability to work safely and efficiently in a chemistry laboratory setting.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of bioorthogonal chemistry (click chemistry) and its applications.
- Interest or experience in radiochemistry (F-18 labeling) or imaging sciences.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
- Complements our culture and the standards that guide our daily behavior & decisions: Integrity, Courage, and Passion.
Responsibilities
- Synthesize and characterize novel small molecule precursors and standards (specifically bioorthogonal handles) for CNS imaging applications.
- Perform bioconjugation workflows to attach chemical handles to antibody fragments (VHH) and conduct rigorous purification.
- Evaluate the stability and reaction kinetics of imaging probes in complex biological environments.
- Gain experience with radiochemistry optimization and the development of pretargeting systems (e.g., TCO-Tetrazine).
- Apply critical thinking to troubleshoot synthetic routes and assay designs.
- Contribute to Genentech’s culture of scientific curiosity and discovery via cross-department presentations.
Benefits
- 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.
- paid holiday time off benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
