SPARC Associate Biologist Intern

ATCC • Gaithersburg, MD

5d

About The Position

Ready to shape the future of science and global health? A global nonprofit providing trusted biological materials, ATCC is hiring SPARC Program Associates to join our R&D team. SPARC Associates support laboratory and operational R&D activities within a regulated biological materials manufacturing environment. Participants apply foundational academic knowledge while gaining hands-on experience with aseptic technique, documentation, and standardized procedures. Success in this role requires attention to detail, curiosity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to learning. The SPARC program offers five distinct, hands-on research projects this year across ATCC’s core scientific disciplines, allowing candidates to apply once and be considered for all opportunities in multiple departments including: Cryobiology, Microphysiological Systems, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Sequencing and Bioinformatics. The SPARC (Student Partnership and Research Collaboration) Program is a partnership with Universities at Shady Grove. The program is designed for rising 3rd and 4th year undergraduate students pursuing degrees in biology or related fields. Participants work a paid, flexible, part-time schedule (up to 20 hours per week) from September through May while continuing their academic studies.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing life science focused bachelor's degree at the Universities at Shady Grove
• Rising 3rd or 4th year student in Biology or related field
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a desire to learn are required
• Ability to adhere to corporate policies and procedures
• Open to troubleshooting and learning through hands-on experience.

Nice To Haves

• Hands on laboratory experience and good aseptic technique highly preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist with routine laboratory activities using aseptic technique and standardized procedures to support biological materials production and quality operations.
• Complete and maintain accurate records in accordance with established protocols, ensuring adherence to regulated processes and quality system requirements.
• Follow approved procedures, guidelines, and safety practices to ensure consistency, reliability, and compliance within a controlled manufacturing environment.
• Contribute to assigned SPARC projects by supporting data collection, analysis, and process-related tasks under guidance from technical staff.
• Engage with cross-functional teams, seek feedback, and apply learning to enhance performance while demonstrating curiosity and professional growth.
• Apply strong attention to detail in all assigned tasks, supporting accuracy and efficiency within established processes.
• Scientific presentation of the project to the ATCC community.

Benefits

• The expected compensation for this role is $28.00 per hour.
• Comprehensive medical coverage and company paid Life Insurance, Disability Insurance & AD&D
• Work life balance with Paid Holidays and PTO
• Fitness and cell phone subsidies, and additional benefits such as Aflac, legal services, and pet insurance
• Employee Assistance Program offering around-the-clock counseling
• 401(a) (6% employer contribution) and 403(b) (2% match) retirement plans
• Exceptional career advancement opportunities, recognition, and rewards
• Corporate bonus program
• Non-profit organization supporting critical life science research
• We give scientists the tools they need to make discoveries that improve and save lives
• Contribute to community involvement and social responsibility

What This Job Offers

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