R&D PhD Summer Intern – Improving Models of Skin

Procter & Gamble

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Research and Development (R&D) at Procter & Gamble (P&G) is a diverse group of roles contributing to product innovation and development, including product research, formulation, testing, and scientific analysis. This 12-week paid internship is designed for individuals pursuing a PhD, offering them the chance to learn from experienced professionals in a supportive environment. The internship will take place from May (potentially early June) to August of 2027. P&G offers an opportunity for a PhD intern in Corporate Function R&D to work on a high-impact challenge: extending the usable lifespan of advanced skin models. The intern will develop and validate a practical method for extending 3D skin model longevity through literature review, experimental design, hands-on work with ex vivo and in vitro skin models, and longitudinal assessment of skin health. Guided by technical coaches, the intern will develop an improved model system for studying chronic effects on skin. This role is ideal for someone seeking experience in translational skin science, 3D tissue models, and method development. The ideal candidate will be eager to learn and grow, possess excellent communication skills, have a passion for innovation and problem-solving, and demonstrate a proactive attitude and adaptability.

Requirements

Working towards a PhD in biology or biochemistry with a focus in skin biology and physiology.
Hands-on experience with general mammalian tissue culture and aseptic technique.
Ability to research and compile information to design controlled comparative experiments and define quantitative endpoints.
Strong scientific communication skills — able to synthesize literature, document protocols, and present recommendations to a technical audience.
Ability to independently scope and execute a primarily self-directed 12-week research project.
Available to work 5 days per week in person at the Mason Business and Innovation Center in Mason, Ohio spanning a 12-week internship from May/early June to August in the summer of 2027.

Nice To Haves

Experience with 3D tissue culture systems (reconstructed epidermis, organotypic cultures, ex vivo skin tissue, or organoids).
Familiarity with skin anatomy and physiology, particularly the epidermal barrier and inflammatory signaling.
Experience with standard viability and cytotoxicity assays (MTT, LDH) and inflammatory readouts (ELISA or related biomarker detection assays).
Experience with skin barrier function measurements (TEWL, TEER) and/or histological assessment of tissue integrity.
Experience benchmarking or troubleshooting cell/tissue models for extended culture duration.

Responsibilities

Review published approaches for extending the viability of ex vivo and in vitro skin models.
Design and conduct controlled studies beginning with current internal models.
Monitor various metrics of skin health and viability over time.
Analyze and interpret results to identify the most effective, reproducible, and practical method.
Develop and communicate a clear protocol and recommendations for broader team use.