Co-Op, Cell Based Sequencing

Lila Sciences • Cambridge, MA

9d • Onsite

About The Position

Lila Sciences is hiring a winter co-op for the LS Experiment team at its Alewife lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The role supports cell-based sequencing assay development to investigate RNA biology and advance the company’s mRNA platform. The co-op runs from January 11 through May 14 and is full-time and on site.

The co-op performs hands-on laboratory work, including mammalian cell culture and transfections, RNA extraction, sample preparation for sequencing, and bead-based purification. Working under a scientist’s supervision, the co-op helps develop reproducible protocols and interpret results. The role also requires careful data capture and regular presentations of findings to the team.

Requirements

• Be pursuing a bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Experience with RNA extraction and PCR.
• Strong attention to detail in sample handling and labeling.
• Clear, consistent record keeping and comfort following detailed protocols.
• Availability to work full time on site in Cambridge, MA, from January 11 to May 14.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with next-generation sequencing library preparation.
• Exposure to Python or R for sequencing data analysis.
• Experience with magnetic bead purification workflows.
• Interest in applying AI tools in a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and passage mammalian cell lines for assay experiments.
• Transfect mammalian cell lines using chemical or electroporation methods.
• Extract RNA from cultured cells and assess sample quality.
• Run PCR and prepare samples for sequencing.
• Perform bead-based purifications and sample cleanup.
• Record protocols and results in formats ready for computational analysis.
• Present experimental findings to the team in regular reviews.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern