Research Intern – Automated Sample Preparation (zBot) at Zymo Research Corporation

Irvine, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

21 Sep, 26

Salary

23.0

Posted On

23 Jun, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

DNA Extraction, RNA Extraction, PCR, qPCR, NGS Sample Preparation, Laboratory Automation, Liquid Handling Systems, Magnetic Bead-Based Purification, Experimental Design, Data Analysis, Protocol Optimization, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Troubleshooting, Documentation

Industry

Biotechnology Research

Description

Job Summary: Zymo Research is seeking a Summer Research Intern to support the development of zBot, an automated sample preparation platform for DNA and RNA purification workflows. The intern will work closely with both engineering and scientific teams to optimize nucleic acid extraction processes for automated operation. This role is ideal for students with strong backgrounds in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or bioengineering who are interested in applying biological and chemical principles to laboratory automation. The selected candidate will participate in experimental design, protocol optimization, data analysis, and performance evaluation of automated DNA/RNA purification workflows. This internship is expected to require approximately 29-40 hours per week. Join us in making a meaningful impact! Key Responsibilities: • Perform DNA and RNA extraction experiments using automated and manual workflows. • Optimize nucleic acid purification protocols for automated execution. • Evaluate extraction yield, purity, reproducibility, and overall workflow performance. • Assist in the development and testing of automated sample preparation methods. • Troubleshoot biological, chemical, and process-related challenges affecting workflow performance. • Conduct comparative studies between manual and automated purification methods. • Analyze experimental data and prepare reports summarizing findings and recommendations. • Maintain accurate laboratory records and experimental documentation. • Collaborate with scientists and engineers to improve workflow robustness and user experience. Preferred Qualifications: • Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, Chemical Biology, or a related field. • Hands-on laboratory experience with DNA/RNA purification, PCR, qPCR, NGS sample preparation, or related molecular biology techniques. • Strong understanding of nucleic acid extraction principles, buffers, enzymes, and sample preparation workflows. • Experience designing and executing biological experiments. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. • Ability to organize, analyze, and interpret experimental data. • Excellent communication and documentation skills. Preferred Skills: • Familiarity with magnetic bead-based purification methods. • Experience with laboratory automation, liquid handling systems, or robotic platforms is a plus. • Experience with statistical analysis and data visualization tools is a plus. Learning Opportunities: • Gain hands-on experience developing next-generation laboratory automation systems. • Learn how biological workflows are translated into automated instrument protocols. • Work directly with multidisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers. • Contribute to the development of commercial automation products used in molecular biology laboratories worldwide. About Us: Since its inception in 1994, Zymo Research has been proudly serving the scientific community by providing innovative, reliable, and high-quality research tools and products. Whether it's DNA, RNA, epigenetics, microbiomics, protein, or yeast-based research, our philosophy remains the same: To provide the highest quality products in the industry while ensuring they are both simple to use and reliable in their performance. Recognized as a Top Workplace by the Orange County Register in 2021, 2022, and named a Top Workplace USA in 2023, Zymo Research continues to be a vibrant community where employees thrive, feel connected, and are inspired by their work. If you are passionate about contributing to scientific advancement and want to be part of an exceptional team in a dynamic, growing company, we'd love to hear from you! Compensation, Benefits, and Perks: The estimated base compensation range for this position is $20 -$23 per hour at the time of posting. Actual compensation details will be provided in writing at the time of offer, if applicable, and is based on several factors we believe fairly and accurately impact compensation, including geographic location, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other job permitted factors. Zymo Research also offers competitive benefits and perks including: * Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Coverages * EAP Sessions * Vacation Time plus Company Holidays * Paid Sick Leave * Generous 401(K) with matching * Employee Referral Bonus * Complimentary fruit, snacks, and beverages * Complimentary catered lunches on Thursdays * Complimentary EV Charging * Cell phone stipend Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: Zymo Research welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. These include sex, age, color, race, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical & mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other protected status as defined by federal, state, or local law. Location: OnSite – Zymo Research HQ – 17062 Murphy Ave., Irvine, CA 92614 Disclaimer: At Zymo, we take the integrity of our hiring process seriously. Please be aware of fraudulent recruitment activities that may use our name to deceive job seekers. We will never ask for payment, sensitive personal information, or financial details during the recruitment process. All legitimate communications will come from an official Zymo or TriNet Hiring email address. If you are contacted by anyone claiming to represent us using a free email service (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or asking for payment, please treat this as fraudulent and report it immediately to jobs@zymoresearch.com [jobs@zymoresearch.com]

Responsibilities

The intern will support the development of the zBot automated sample preparation platform by optimizing nucleic acid extraction processes. Key tasks include performing experiments, evaluating workflow performance, and collaborating with engineering teams to improve robustness.