Summer Research Intern - Medicinal Chemistry (Undergraduate/Graduate Student level)

Septerna•South San Francisco, CA

1d•$25 - $40•Onsite

About The Position

Our intern program provides opportunities for hands-on research experience, coaching and mentoring, and networking. The intern will synthesize, purify, and characterize novel small molecules in the context of a medicinal chemistry program. The internship start date is May or June 2026 and will take place over 12 weeks on-site in South San Francisco.

Requirements

Pursuing a Bachelors/Master/PhD (enrolled student) in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, or related field.
Prior hands-on research lab experience in organic synthesis is highly desired, and could include, but is not limited to the following:
Experience with laboratory techniques commonly used in medicinal chemistry, such as synthesis, purification, and characterization of organic compounds
Synthetic route design and troubleshooting
New reaction methodology development
Familiarity with analytical techniques for compound characterization (NMR, LCMS, HPLC)
Familiarity with use of ChemDraw and tools like SciFinder or Reaxys for searching electronic journal databases
Ability to keep and maintain records and experiments within an electronic lab notebook
Ability to interpret and analyze experimental data, troubleshoot experiments, and propose solutions to research challenges.
Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
Self-motivated, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Ability to read and digest scientific literature
Strong organizational, problem solving, analytical and quantitative skills
Ability to efficiently manage short timelines
Authorized to work in the U.S. i.e. (applicants who require employer sponsored visas now or in the future are not eligible to apply)
Must be at least 18 years old
Ability to complete 12 consecutive weeks between May and September on-site in South San Francisco.
Enrolled currently in graduate degree at an accredited college/university and returning to the University/and or College following the internship
Strict adherence to lab safety rules and regulations

Nice To Haves

Ability to interpret and analyze experimental data, troubleshoot experiments, and propose solutions to research challenges.
Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
Self-motivated, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Ability to read and digest scientific literature
Strong organizational, problem solving, analytical and quantitative skills

Responsibilities

Plan, execute, and optimize routes to synthesize and characterize novel bioactive small molecules.
Take ownership of challenging and impactful projects.
Work alongside exceptional scientists in the field of GPCR drug discovery.
Participate in weekly project team meetings.
Provide a final presentation of project work to senior leaders.