Intern - Lab Operations

Who Is Portal Innovations:

Portal Innovations is a biotech venture development engine, focused on early-stage life science enterprises. We help exceptional life sciences innovators build their companies where they live and beyond. Launched in 2020, we surround these entrepreneurs with the resources and network they need for seed capital, state-of-the-art lab space, a community-based ecosystem, and access to experts in their fields and prospective investors and partners.

Opportunity: Lab Ops 2026 Summer Internship 

Time Commitment: 20 -30 Hours a week

Location: ON SITE- Chicago West Loop

Where to Apply: 

https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=d9696a53-1dce-4546-a7a4-cc7f67acfdc3&ccId=19000101_000001&type=JS&lang=en_US

What We Are Looking For: 

Portal Innovations is seeking detail-oriented interns to join our Lab Operations team. As part of our team, you will play a vital role in maintaining the efficient day-to-day operations of our shared lab spaces, shadow different companies within the lab environment to understand diverse workflows and needs, and contributing to the creation of equipment training materials for the entire incubator ecosystem.

What This Internship Will Entail:

• Assist in coordinating and managing lab resources and equipment for startup teams.
• This includes, but not limited to: assisting with routine cleaning and maintenance of incubators, refrigerators, and freezers, support scheduled defrosts and equipment upkeep activities, help standardize lab signage across the board, help communicate lab updates, maintenance notices, and cleanout schedules, etc.
• Support the Lab Operations team in the creation of equipment and site SOPs, ensuring clear and accessible instructions for all users in the incubator ecosystem.
• This will be a national project where you will assist in distributing and promoting training materials to startup teams and lab users, ensuring everyone is informed on proper equipment usage.
• Support Safety and Organization protocols inclusive of inventory management, implementation of safety protocols and ensuring a clean, organized work environment.
• This includes but not limited to: bi-weekly safety kit checks, quarterly chemical audit, quarterly cold storage audit, etc.
• User Support & Communication
• Help communicate lab updates, maintenance notices, and cleanout schedules
• Update signage such as freezer maps, incubator assignments, and SOP postings

What we're looking for:

• Students working towards their Associates or Bachelors in related field
• Strong communication skills and a team-first attitude
• 1-2 years of foundational interest or experience in any science concentration or a related field
• Comfort asking questions and a willingness to take on new challenges
• Ability to work well with others

Compensation: $18.50 per hour 20 -30 Hours a week