Biologics Formulation Research Internship - Spring 2027

The role

This intern will perform analytical characterization and formulation of biologic drug candidates. The role involves applying biophysical and analytical techniques to evaluate protein structure, stability, and performance for manufacturing in microgravity.

What you will do

• Perform biophysical characterization of protein candidates using orthogonal analytical techniques
• Design and execute binding and selection studies between disordered protein stabilizers and microcrystalline pharmaceutical substrates
• Evaluate stabilizer performance through lyophilization and reconstitution cycles
• Conduct purity and charge variant analysis via SDS-PAGE and capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF)
• Prepare reagents, buffers, and sample sets
• Maintain accurate, well-documented records in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems
• Collaborate with formulation scientists to anticipate laboratory needs and contribute to team meetings

Required qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor's or graduate degree program in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or a related field
• Prior hands-on laboratory experience in an academic or industry setting
• Knowledge of basic analytical techniques for protein characterization
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental protocols precisely
• Excellent organizational skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Nice to have

• Junior, Senior, or Graduate academic standing
• Familiarity with one or more of the listed biophysical characterization techniques (DLS, nanoDSF, SEC, CD, or capillary electrophoresis)
• Background in protein formulation, biologics drug product development, or protein biochemistry
• Familiarity with lyophilization, freeze-drying, or related solid-state processing methods
• Experience with data analysis tools such as GraphPad Prism, Python, MATLAB, or similar
• Previous experience in a GLP-compliant or structured R&D laboratory environment
• Interest in space medicine, in-orbit manufacturing, or the emerging orbital economy

Benefits

• Paid observed holidays
• 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents
• FSA and employer-matched HSA options
• $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
• Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
• $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
• Up to $4,000 gross up in relocation support, if eligible
• Up to $850 commute credit through Lyft or car rental reimbursement, if eligible
• Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly
• Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations
• Complimentary EV charging

Before you apply

• Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) to access export-controlled items
• Must be actively enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program

About the company

Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. The company is headquartered in El Segundo, California.