Biology Internships
Biology internships give university students, recent graduates, and early-career switchers hands-on project experience in labs, field sites, and research settings, mentorship from working biologists and research scientists, and, at many employers, a path toward a full-time offer. Openings are concentrated across {{top_industries_phrase}}, with Moderna, City of Lakeland, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals among the employers posting roles now.
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Job Description
Kickstart Your Career at Vertex!
Are you ready to make a real impact? At Vertex, our mission is to tackle serious diseases and to change lives, for the better, for the future. Our aim is to give you the skills, insights, and career guidance to be an important part of that future; to turn your potential into progression. As a Vertex intern or co-op, you’ll work on meaningful projects, collaborate with talented teams, and learn from industry leaders. We’re passionate about innovation, inclusion, and supporting your growth—inside and outside the lab.
Why Vertex?
- Real Projects: You’ll work on assignments that make a real impact, not just busy work.
- Mentorship & Networking: Connect with leaders and peers who want to see you succeed through professional networks, connections, and collaborations that will shape your longer-term career.
- Flexible & Supportive: We offer flexible work options with Flex @ Vertex and prioritize your wellbeing.
- Inclusive Culture: Collaboration and inclusion are embedded in everything we do.
- Career Launchpad: Build skills, explore career paths, and get guidance for your future career.
Your Impact
The Vertex Structural Biology & Biophysics Co-Op program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an undergraduate or advanced degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, molecular biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth-minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Structural Biology and Biophysics functional areas and serve as a launchpad for your career.
The application deadline for this co-op is November 15th, 2026. Please note that Vertex reviews applications on a rolling basis and reserves the right to close this job posting prior to the listed deadline. Applicants can expect to receive an update about their application before or shortly after the application deadline.
Ready to apply? Submit your application and let’s turn possibilities into reality!
What you will be doing:
Vertex is seeking a curious and motivated laboratory co-op student to support our Structural Biology and Biophysics team. This hands-on opportunity is designed for students who are interested in learning about laboratory-based drug discovery research, protein science, and biophysical characterization.
Working alongside experienced scientists, the co-op student will receive guidance and training while contributing to experiments that help characterize proteins, assess molecular interactions, and support the advancement of potential therapies. The role is based on-site , with laboratory work being a core component of the position.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support daily laboratory activities and research projects within the Structural Biology and Biophysics team.
- Learn and perform routine laboratory techniques under the guidance of experienced scientists.
- Prepare buffers, reagents, samples, and assay plates by following established procedures.
- Support biochemical and biophysical assay activities, including nephelometry-based experiments used to evaluate properties such as sample solubility, aggregation, or precipitation.
- Collect, organize, and document experimental data using laboratory notebooks, electronic systems, spreadsheets, and reports. Follow Vertex laboratory safety, quality, documentation, and compliance requirements.
What you will need to succeed:
- Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, molecular biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or another related scientific field.
- Available to work on-site for the full duration of the co-op assignment.
- Interest in laboratory research, protein science, structural biology, biophysics, or drug discovery.
- Completion of introductory college coursework with a laboratory component in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
- Comfortable following detailed procedures and asking questions when clarification is needed.
- Ability to keep clear, accurate records of work performed.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively as part of a team.
Prior experience in structural biology, biophysics, or pharmaceutical research is preferred. Training and mentorship will be provided.
- Prior exposure to structural biology and/or biophysics through coursework, academic research, laboratory projects, internships, or scientific literature review is beneficial.
- Interest in structural biology, biophysics, protein science, biochemistry, or drug discovery.
- Exposure to laboratory techniques such as protein purification, protein assays, molecular biology, analytical chemistry, or biophysical characterization.
- Familiarity with nephelometry, turbidity measurements, microplate-based assays, plate readers, or laboratory automation is beneficial but not required.
- Experience using Excel or similar tools to organize, analyze, and graph scientific data.
- Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, scientific documentation, or presenting project results.
- Demonstrated curiosity, reliability, and enthusiasm for developing laboratory and scientific problem-solving skills.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future. Please note that Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships/co-ops or entry level roles within this part of the organization.
- You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2027 You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January – June 2027
Program Details:
- Full-time, paid co-op $20.00-35.00 USD/hour
- Program Dates: January – June 2027
At Vertex, we believe that when you feel your best, you can perform at your best. That’s why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you.
- Free 24/7 onsite gym access and free access to group exercise classes
- Subsidized commuter benefits- transit and parking
- Provided meals—free breakfast daily!
- Career development opportunities and events, including C Suite engagement
- Social events—both intern-only and company-wide
- Location-specific perks and extras! Recognition of National Intern Day
-
Our Ways of Working
Flex Designation: On-Site Eligible
Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.
This job posting is for a temporary role with a third-party agency partner that provides services to Vertex. The individual selected for this role will be offered the role as an employee of that third-party agency; compensation, medical benefits, fringe benefits and other terms and conditions of employment shall be presented by the third-party agency upon offer. The range provided is a reasonable estimate for the pay range for this job at the time of posting. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. The actual pay rate will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.
At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.
Pay Range:
$0 - $0Disclosure Statement:
The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.
Company Information
Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.
Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com
Job Description
Kickstart Your Career at Vertex!
Are you ready to make a real impact? At Vertex, our mission is to tackle serious diseases and to change lives, for the better, for the future. Our aim is to give you the skills, insights, and career guidance to be an important part of that future; to turn your potential into progression. As a Vertex intern or co-op, you’ll work on meaningful projects, collaborate with talented teams, and learn from industry leaders. We’re passionate about innovation, inclusion, and supporting your growth—inside and outside the lab.
Why Vertex?
- Real Projects: You’ll work on assignments that make a real impact, not just busy work.
- Mentorship & Networking: Connect with leaders and peers who want to see you succeed through professional networks, connections, and collaborations that will shape your longer-term career.
- Flexible & Supportive: We offer flexible work options with Flex @ Vertex and prioritize your wellbeing.
- Inclusive Culture: Collaboration and inclusion are embedded in everything we do.
- Career Launchpad: Build skills, explore career paths, and get guidance for your future career.
Your Impact
The Vertex Structural Biology & Biophysics Co-Op program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an undergraduate or advanced degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, molecular biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related field. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth-minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Structural Biology and Biophysics functional areas and serve as a launchpad for your career.
The application deadline for this co-op is November 15th, 2026. Please note that Vertex reviews applications on a rolling basis and reserves the right to close this job posting prior to the listed deadline. Applicants can expect to receive an update about their application before or shortly after the application deadline.
Ready to apply? Submit your application and let’s turn possibilities into reality!
What you will be doing:
Vertex is seeking a curious and motivated laboratory co-op student to support our Structural Biology and Biophysics team. This hands-on opportunity is designed for students who are interested in learning about laboratory-based drug discovery research, protein science, and biophysical characterization.
Working alongside experienced scientists, the co-op student will receive guidance and training while contributing to experiments that help characterize proteins, assess molecular interactions, and support the advancement of potential therapies. The role is based on-site , with laboratory work being a core component of the position.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support daily laboratory activities and research projects within the Structural Biology and Biophysics team.
- Learn and perform routine laboratory techniques under the guidance of experienced scientists.
- Prepare buffers, reagents, samples, and assay plates by following established procedures.
- Support biochemical and biophysical assay activities, including nephelometry-based experiments used to evaluate properties such as sample solubility, aggregation, or precipitation.
- Collect, organize, and document experimental data using laboratory notebooks, electronic systems, spreadsheets, and reports. Follow Vertex laboratory safety, quality, documentation, and compliance requirements.
What you will need to succeed:
- Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, molecular biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or another related scientific field.
- Available to work on-site for the full duration of the co-op assignment.
- Interest in laboratory research, protein science, structural biology, biophysics, or drug discovery.
- Completion of introductory college coursework with a laboratory component in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
- Comfortable following detailed procedures and asking questions when clarification is needed.
- Ability to keep clear, accurate records of work performed.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively as part of a team.
Prior experience in structural biology, biophysics, or pharmaceutical research is preferred. Training and mentorship will be provided.
- Prior exposure to structural biology and/or biophysics through coursework, academic research, laboratory projects, internships, or scientific literature review is beneficial.
- Interest in structural biology, biophysics, protein science, biochemistry, or drug discovery.
- Exposure to laboratory techniques such as protein purification, protein assays, molecular biology, analytical chemistry, or biophysical characterization.
- Familiarity with nephelometry, turbidity measurements, microplate-based assays, plate readers, or laboratory automation is beneficial but not required.
- Experience using Excel or similar tools to organize, analyze, and graph scientific data.
- Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, scientific documentation, or presenting project results.
- Demonstrated curiosity, reliability, and enthusiasm for developing laboratory and scientific problem-solving skills.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future. Please note that Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships/co-ops or entry level roles within this part of the organization.
- You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2027 You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January – June 2027
Program Details:
- Full-time, paid co-op $20.00-35.00 USD/hour
- Program Dates: January – June 2027
At Vertex, we believe that when you feel your best, you can perform at your best. That’s why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you.
- Free 24/7 onsite gym access and free access to group exercise classes
- Subsidized commuter benefits- transit and parking
- Provided meals—free breakfast daily!
- Career development opportunities and events, including C Suite engagement
- Social events—both intern-only and company-wide
- Location-specific perks and extras! Recognition of National Intern Day
-
Our Ways of Working
Flex Designation: On-Site Eligible
Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.
This job posting is for a temporary role with a third-party agency partner that provides services to Vertex. The individual selected for this role will be offered the role as an employee of that third-party agency; compensation, medical benefits, fringe benefits and other terms and conditions of employment shall be presented by the third-party agency upon offer. The range provided is a reasonable estimate for the pay range for this job at the time of posting. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. The actual pay rate will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.
At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.
Pay Range:
$0 - $0Disclosure Statement:
The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.
At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.
Company Information
Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.
Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com
Biology Internship Market
Who's Hiring
Tips for Your Biology Internship Search
Apply months before the internship starts
Large employers in pharma, biotech, and government research recruit summer biology interns the preceding fall, with application deadlines as early as October. Smaller companies and co-op programs post closer to their start dates, so check listings regularly throughout the year rather than waiting until spring.
Build a project portfolio before you apply
Biology intern hiring teams expect limited work history, so your strongest asset is documented project work. Compile two or three complete projects, lab experiments with written methods and results, field data reports, or independent research write-ups, and make them accessible as a linked portfolio or PDF you can attach to applications.
Work your campus network alongside direct applications
Campus career fairs surface structured internship programs tied to your university, and recruiters there often move faster for students they meet in person. Professors and career center staff frequently know which employers recruit from your school before roles post publicly. Applying directly to companies running smaller cohorts alongside campus activity widens the pool you can reach.
Practice your biology intern interview out loud
Biology internship screens often include a technical conversation about experimental design, data interpretation, or a past project walkthrough. Practice answering out loud before you apply, explaining your reasoning step by step, because interviewers weigh how you think through a problem as much as the final answer. Recording yourself once helps you catch gaps before the real screen.
Target structured biology internship programs early
Many large research institutions, federal agencies, and life sciences companies run cohort-based or rotational internship programs, including REU programs and agency summer scholar tracks, built specifically to train people new to independent research. These programs recruit early and fill fast, so identify the ones that fit your background and submit in the first wave of their application cycle.
Set your work-type filter before you start searching
On-site roles are 100% of the biology internships listed here. Decide upfront whether you can relocate or commit to a specific lab location before you sort through listings, then filter by work type and location so you spend your time on roles you can actually take.
Biology Internships: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a biology internship?
Lead with coursework and personal projects rather than work history, hiring teams expect limited experience at the intern level. For biology candidates, the concrete artifact that gives recruiters something to assess is a lab notebook, documented research project, or field data report. Combine direct applications with campus career fairs, where recruiters often move faster for students they meet in person.
Can a biology internship turn into a full-time job?
Many employers extend return offers to strong interns, but conversion is never guaranteed. What drives it for biology interns is performance on real project work, available headcount on the team, and how early you signal interest before the return-offer window closes. Position yourself by delivering on your assigned project and treating the internship as an extended interview, without counting on a guaranteed outcome.
When should I apply for biology internships?
Earlier than most students expect. Large employers, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and major research institutions, recruit summer interns the preceding fall, often with deadlines in October or November. Smaller companies and co-op programs post closer to start dates, so openings appear year-round. Checking listings regularly means you won't miss roles that open and fill quickly outside the main recruiting season.
Are biology internships paid?
Most professional biology internships in the United States are paid. Compensation varies by company size, industry, and location, a large pharmaceutical firm typically pays more than a small nonprofit research lab. Listings show compensation where the employer discloses it, so you can compare opportunities directly as you search.
What should a biology internship resume include?
Lead with projects, not work history. Include two or three complete, documented projects showing the methods you used and what you found, for biology candidates, that means linked lab reports, field study write-ups, published or in-progress research abstracts, or data analysis portfolios with your code or protocols attached. Add relevant coursework in areas like genetics, biochemistry, or ecology, and keep the resume to one page.
Are there remote biology internships?
Yes. Remote and hybrid roles make up 0% of the biology internship listings here, with the rest on-site. Remote cohorts fill fast since they draw applicants from across the country, so apply early and filter by work type to see them before they close.
What is a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) internship in biology?
REU programs are structured, funded research internships hosted at universities and research institutions, typically running eight to ten weeks over summer. They are built specifically for undergraduates new to independent research, pair participants with faculty mentors on active projects, and cover a stipend plus housing at many sites. REU programs recruit in winter for summer start dates and are competitive, so apply in the first wave of their cycle.
Can international students get biology internships?
Yes. F-1 students can intern through CPT while enrolled or through OPT work authorization after finishing a degree, and the employer does not have to file anything for either, so many companies are open to international interns. Confirm your eligibility and timing with your university's international student office before accepting an offer.
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