Co-op, Neurodevelopmental Biology Research

Biogen•Cambridge, MA

4d•$23 - $29

About The Position

This application is for a 6-month student role from January - June 2027. Resume review begins in October 2026. The Neurodevelopmental Biology Research Group is seeking a highly motivated co-op student to support exploratory research focused on therapeutic strategies to modulate disease relevant RNA transcripts. This role is situated within early-stage research efforts dedicated to target identification and validation. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists to design, execute, and analyze experiments that investigate targeting key DNA, RNA, and protein sequences that may alter the disease course or relevant pathways. Key responsibilities include performing molecular assays such as quantitative PCR (qPCR) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), gel electrophoretic analysis of PCR products, and western blot analysis. The role also involves routine mammalian cell culture, and plasmid transfection/viral transduction of both human iPSC-derived neurons and established cell lines, immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy and quantitative image analysis including co-localization and morphological assessments to support functional characterization of candidate targets. Candidates should have a strong cell biology background, an understanding of genomics and proteomics, supported by technical wet lab experience.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree
Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
At least 18 years of age prior to the scheduled start date.
Currently enrolled in an accredited community college, college, university or skills program/apprenticeship.
Strong cell biology background
Understanding of genomics and proteomics
Technical wet lab experience

Nice To Haves

Cell culture and molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, transfection)
Western blot (standard or capillary)
Immunofluorescent cell-based assays
Functional cellular-based assays (e.g. multi-electrode array recording)
Data analysis and visualization including GraphPad Prism

Responsibilities

Support discovery-stage research by executing molecular and cell-based experiments that contribute to target identification and validation efforts.
Generate and analyze genomic and proteomic data using qPCR, ddPCR, western blotting, and protein-based assays, including immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy, and quantitative image analysis.
Employ iPSC-derived neurons and cell lines to assess target function.
Participate in experimental planning, troubleshoot assays, and deliver well-documented datasets, figures, and summaries that inform ongoing research projects.