Co-op, Neurology Research Unit

Biogen•Cambridge, MA

1d•$29 - $33

About The Position

This application is for a 6-month student role from July - December 2026. Resume review begins in February 2026. The Neurology Research Unit, ALS Research Group, is seeking a highly motivated co-op student to support exploratory discovery research focused on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying ALS. This role is situated within early-stage research efforts dedicated to target identification and target validation and provides the opportunity to contribute to hypothesis-driven studies addressing fundamental questions in ALS biology. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists to design, execute, and analyze experiments that investigate genomic and proteomic alterations associated with ALS-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 protein quantification using AlphaLISA and MSD platforms, 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.

Requirements

Strong foundation in molecular biology with hands-on experience in genomics- and proteomics-based assays, including qPCR, ddPCR, western blotting, and protein analysis methods.
Proficient in mammalian cell culture and have experience working with iPSC-derived neurons and/or established cell lines, including assay development and assay optimization.
Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, maintain rigorous experimental documentation, and are able to work independently while collaborating effectively within a research team.
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.

Responsibilities

Support discovery-stage ALS 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, while employing 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, including studies focused on ALS mechanisms and approaches to modulate the structural and functional properties of key targets.