Research Intern

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center • Los Angeles, CA

4d

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated undergraduate or graduate student interested in gaining hands-on laboratory research experience in immunology, molecular biology, and cancer research. This internship is designed to build a strong scientific foundation through mentorship, technical training, and participation in ongoing research projects. Interns will develop laboratory skills, learn experimental design, analyze scientific data, and strengthen their understanding of biomedical research while working alongside experienced research staff. Throughout the internship, participants will gain knowledge and experience in: Immunology, molecular biology, and cellular biology Scientific literature review and interpretation Laboratory safety and best practices Experimental design and data analysis Scientific communication and presentation skills.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must have a HS Diploma or GED.
• Must reside in the greater Los Angeles area or surrounding cities while conducting all activities related to the intern or visitor appointment.
• Those participating for academic credit must receive academic credit for the duration of the internship.
• Must be receiving funding from an eligible sponsoring institution (employer, educator, funder, etc.) if a visitor.

Nice To Haves

• Undergraduate or graduate student interested in gaining hands-on laboratory research experience in immunology, molecular biology, and cancer research.
• Technical training may include, but is not limited to: DNA extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Gel electrophoresis and gel documentation, Data acquisition and analysis, Histological sectioning and tissue staining, Histology imaging and documentation, Flow cytometry (FACS) sample preparation, RNA extraction and reverse transcription, Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Cell culture techniques, Immunohistochemistry, Exposure to mouse models used in cancer research (as appropriate).

Responsibilities

• Complete laboratory safety and best practices training.
• Learn core scientific concepts supporting laboratory research, including experimental mouse models, molecular biology techniques, and laboratory methodologies.
• Receive instruction on techniques such as PCR, histology, RNA analysis, flow cytometry, and phenotype analysis.
• Demonstrate competency through a laboratory skills assessment before progressing to hands-on research activities.
• Partner with an experienced laboratory mentor.
• Become familiar with an active research project, including its objectives and scientific significance.
• Conduct guided literature reviews by reading and discussing relevant scientific publications.
• Begin hands-on training in laboratory techniques, including pipetting, reagent preparation, and sample handling.
• Continue supporting ongoing research projects.
• Develop proficiency in more advanced laboratory techniques, including: Histological sectioning, Immunohistochemistry, Quantitative PCR (qPCR), Flow cytometry, Cell culture.
• Continue literature review and scientific discussion related to assigned projects.
• Continue contributing to laboratory research.
• Present research contributions and experimental findings to the laboratory team.
• Lead a journal club presentation by critically reviewing and presenting a scientific publication related to the assigned research area.
• Continue supporting laboratory research activities.
• Compile and analyze experimental data collected during the internship.
• Deliver a final presentation summarizing research contributions, experimental findings, data interpretation, and the broader scientific significance of the work.
• Lead a second journal club presentation demonstrating continued growth in scientific analysis and communication.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED