Oligo Synthesis and Purification Intern

Job Title: Oligo Synthesis and Purification Intern

Location: South San Francisco, CA (local candidates only)

Reports to: Scientist, Nucleic Acid Chemistry

Regular/Temporary: Temporary (Summer Internship)

Full/Part-Time (if part-time, number of hours each week): Monday-Friday

Internship Duration (10-12 weeks): Start Date (May/June) – End Date (August/September)

About SonoThera: 

SonoThera is a venture capital-backed early-stage biopharmaceutical company developing ultra-sound-guided non-viral targeted gene therapies to treat multiple diseases of high unmet need.  SonoThera uses a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and forward-thinking approach to solving many of the current challenges facing genetic medicine discovery and drug development. SonoThera is headquartered in South San Francisco, CA. 

Program Overview

The Summer Internship Program provides hands-on experience designed to complement academic learning. Over the course of the program, interns will gain exposure to real-world projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and receive structured mentorship and feedback. We are seeking a highly motivated Summer Intern to join our team, where you will assist in the synthesis and purification of oligonucleotides. This hands-on role will offer the opportunity to gain practical experience in laboratory techniques related to oligo synthesis and purification, contributing directly to our research and development efforts. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship.

Role Summary

The Oligo Synthesis and Purification Intern will play a key part in supporting the team’s goal of producing high-quality oligonucleotides for research and production purposes. As a summer intern, you will work closely with experienced scientists and technicians in the lab, learning essential techniques and ensuring the quality of synthesized products. Your work will directly interface with team members in oligo synthesis, quality control, and laboratory operations, contributing to efficient project execution and deadlines. 

Key Responsibilities

Learning Objectives

By the end of this internship, the Oligo Synthesis and Purification Intern will:

• Assist in the preparation, synthesis, and purification of oligonucleotides under the guidance of scientists. 
• Conduct quality control testing to ensure the purity and integrity of synthesized products.
• Maintain detailed lab records, including experimental setups, results, and observations.
• Participate in troubleshooting and optimizing oligo synthesis and purification processes. 
• Support lab organization, inventory management, and general housekeeping tasks to maintain a productive work environment. 
• Gain exposure to laboratory instrumentation such as oligo synthesizers, HPLC, and other purification tools. 

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled or anticipated to graduate within 1 year from a graduate degree program (Bachelor’s or Master's) in biochemistry, chemistry, chemical biology, or a related field. Recent graduates (within 18 months of post-degree) are also encouraged to apply.
• No prior professional experience is required, but laboratory experience or coursework related to chemistry is preferred.
• Strong academic background with demonstrated interest in chemistry and laboratory work.
• Ability to work effectively in ateam environment and collaborate with others to achieve common goals. 

Technical Requirements and Skills

• Basic understanding of oligonucleotide synthesis and purification techniques principles.
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as automated synthesizers, and HPLC systems.
• Good attention to detail and accuracy when performing laboratory tasks.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills to ensure compliance with protocols and maintain lab safety.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, to report results and share observations with team members.
• A proactive and enthusiastic attitude towards learning new techniques and problem-solving in the laboratory.

Compensation: The is a paid internship. Hourly pay is based on current degree level

• Pursuing Bachelor’s degree: $27.00 per hour
• Pursuing Master’s (MS) degree: $30.00 per hour

Compensation is determined based on verified academic enrollment at the time of hire.

Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion  

SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.