Intern, Biophysical Characterization of 𝝰-synuclein in Living Cells (PhD Only)

Calico•South San Francisco, CA

30d•$45 - $70•Onsite

About The Position

Calico (Calico Life Sciences LLC) is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies and model systems to increase our understanding of the biology that controls human aging. Calico will use that knowledge to devise interventions that enable people to lead longer and healthier lives. Calico’s highly innovative technology labs, its commitment to curiosity-driven discovery science, and, with academic and industry partners, its vibrant drug-development pipeline, together create an inspiring and exciting place to catalyze and enable medical breakthroughs. Calico is seeking an intern to join the Parkinson’s Disease Initiative. To succeed, you will need to be an enthusiastic team player, detail-oriented, extremely organized and comfortable working on complex problems. In this position you will develop a novel imaging-based experimental system to study 𝝰-synuclein dynamics in vitro and in living cells, focusing on its oligomerization and aggregation regulated by disease-relevant perturbation. The successful candidate will work closely with members of the Parkinson’s Disease Initiative and the imaging team to develop a labeling strategy for 𝝰-synuclein using codon expansion technology.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a PhD degree, in biophysics, cell biology, neuroscience or a related field
Experience working with fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry
Knowledge of physical modeling of biological processes, quantitative imaging analysis
Familiarity with standard molecular biology and tissue culture methods
Detail-oriented and organized
Strong teamwork and communication skills
Self-motivated with a “can-do” attitude
Flexible, able to respond quickly to shifting priorities and able to multitask

Nice To Haves

Experience in genetic screening, codon expansion system, Parkinson’s disease

Responsibilities

Optimize a genetic code expansion approach to site-specifically label alpha synuclein with fluorophores
Proof-of-concept implementation of the labeling system in cell culture
Perform biophysical characterization of labeled synuclein using rotational diffusion methods fluorescence polarization and tumbling methods in vitro and in living cells
Explore experimental perturbations to induce changes in synuclein trafficking, oligomerization, aggregation and clearance

Benefits

3-month summer timeline
In-person experience at our offices in South San Francisco
Matching with at least one Calico mentor
Group supplemental activities weekly featuring guest speakers, Senior Leadership spotlights, and discussion groups on aging science, our drug development approach, and more
End-of-summer company-wide project showcase and poster session
Competitive compensation ($45 - $70/hour) and monthly living expenses stipend

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