Biologics Formulation Research Internship - Spring 2027
About The Position
The Biologics Formulation Research Internship focuses on the analytical characterization and formulation of biologic drug candidates to support the development of stable pharmaceutical products for manufacturing in microgravity. Interns will apply a variety of biophysical and analytical techniques to evaluate protein structure, stability, binding interactions, and performance through formulation and freeze-drying processes. The role combines hands-on laboratory experimentation, scientific data analysis, and close collaboration with formulation scientists to advance next-generation biologic therapeutics. Internships at Varda are optimal for students looking to grow technically and professionally while working on impactful projects critical to the company's success. You will be working on a collaborative team in a startup environment while being able to learn from some of the most accomplished and experienced aerospace professionals in the world. We're dedicated to providing an experience that will let your decisions and contributions help drive Varda's success.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor's or graduate degree program in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or a related field
- Prior hands-on laboratory experience in an academic or industry setting is required
- Knowledge of basic analytical techniques for protein characterization
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental protocols precisely
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
Nice To Haves
- Junior, Senior, or Graduate academic standing
- Familiarity with one or more of the listed biophysical characterization techniques (DLS, nanoDSF, SEC, CD, or capillary electrophoresis)
- Background in protein formulation, biologics drug product development, or protein biochemistry
- Familiarity with lyophilization, freeze-drying, or related solid-state processing methods
- Experience with data analysis tools such as GraphPad Prism, Python, MATLAB, or similar
- Previous experience in a GLP-compliant or structured R&D laboratory environment
- Interest in space medicine, in-orbit manufacturing, or the emerging orbital economy
Responsibilities
- Perform biophysical characterization of protein candidates using orthogonal analytical techniques to assess structure, stability, and interaction behavior
- Design and execute binding and selection studies between disordered protein stabilizers and microcrystalline pharmaceutical substrates
- Evaluate stabilizer performance through lyophilization and reconstitution cycles, assessing protein integrity before and after freeze-drying stress
- Conduct purity and charge variant analysis via SDS-PAGE and capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF)
- Prepare reagents, buffers, and sample sets in advance to ensure experiments run on schedule
- Maintain accurate, well-documented records in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems
- Collaborate with formulation scientists to anticipate laboratory needs and contribute to team meetings and progress updates
Benefits
- Hourly Rate : $33.00
- Housing stipend for interns relocating to the area
- Commuter benefit to support local transportation
- Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays
- 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
- Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance
- $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
- 12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)
- Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic
- Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
- Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up
- 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)
- $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
- Relocation support for new hires, if needed
- Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly
- Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations
- Complimentary EV charging
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
