DNA Purification Intern

Job Title: DNA Purification Intern

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

Reports to: Senior Research Associate, Downstream Process Development

Temporary (Summer Internship)

Full-Time: 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.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship.

Role Summary

The DNA Purification Intern will play a key part in supporting the team’s goal of producing high-quality gene therapy vectors. The intern will work closely with experienced scientists and technicians in the lab, learning essential DNA purification techniques and contributing to maintaining the quality of manufactured products.

In this role, the intern will collaborate with members of the gene therapy and laboratory operations teams to support efficient project execution and meet critical deadlines. This DNA Purification Internship offers a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in laboratory methods while directly contributing to our gene therapy drug development efforts.

Key Responsibilities

Learning Objectives

By the end of this internship, the intern will:

• Assist in downstream purification of DNA gene therapy vectors at small and large scale under the guidance. 
• Perform analytical assays to evaluate the quality of purified DNA.
• Maintain detailed lab records, including experimental setups, results, and observations.
• Participate in troubleshooting and optimizing purification processes. 
• Support lab organization, inventory management, and general housekeeping tasks to maintain a productive work environment. 

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate program. 
• No prior professional experience is required, but laboratory experience or coursework related to biology or chemistry is preferred. 
• Strong academic background with demonstrated interest in chemistry and laboratory work. 
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with others to achieve common goals. 

Technical Requirements and Skills

• Basic understanding of DNA purification techniques and principles. 
• 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.