Serif Biomedicines: Molecular Biology Co-Op

Flagship Pioneering • Cambridge, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Serif Biomedicines is hiring a Molecular Biology Co-Op for January through June 2027. This full-time, 40-hour-per-week position is open exclusively to current Northeastern University Co-Op students and requires five days per week in the office. As a member of the molecular biology team, the co-op will conduct hands-on research, from constructing DNA plasmids to analyzing cell phenotypes and protein expression. The role offers experience across cloning, gel-based analysis, cell engineering, assay development, and data analysis, with opportunities to collaborate with experienced scientists and contribute to platform-scale molecular biology work.

The co-op program includes enrichment sessions, a professional development track, and mentorship. Strong co-ops may be considered for future opportunities across Flagship Pioneering and its portfolio companies. The position is a short-term engagement and is not eligible for health and welfare benefits; retirement benefits may be available after a specified number of hours. Compensation is $25–$35 per hour.

Requirements

• Must be a current Northeastern University Co-Op student.
• Be pursuing a master's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with miniprep/midiprep, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digests, ligation, and DNA purification.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Motivation and enthusiasm for hands-on bench science, curiosity, problem-solving ability, and capacity to learn new techniques quickly.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with synthetic biology, genome engineering, or assay development.
• Creative thinking and eagerness to contribute in a fast-paced research environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and quality-check DNA constructs using restriction cloning, Gibson or Golden Gate assembly, and PCR.
• Run agarose DNA gels to analyze PCR products and digests; perform gel extraction and DNA purification.
• Set up restriction enzyme digests and ligations, optimize reaction conditions, and troubleshoot cloning workflows.
• Perform core molecular and cell biology tasks, including DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR/RT-qPCR, transfection/transduction, and clonal line generation.
• Analyze and clearly communicate experimental results, and iterate protocols in collaboration with experienced scientists.

Benefits

• Mentorship and a dedicated professional development track through the Flagship Pioneering Co-Op Program.
• Potential consideration for future opportunities across Flagship Pioneering and its portfolio companies.
• Retirement benefits may be available after completing a set number of hours.

What This Job Offers

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