Process Development Internship - Summer 2023
Company Overview:
Our mission at Forge Biologics, is to enable access to life changing gene therapies and help bring them from idea into reality. We partner with innovators in the gene therapy community: scientists, physicians, biotech and pharma companies and patient groups. We bring expertise in gene therapy manufacturing and development to the table, helping champion teams that are navigating the long road from the lab bench to the patient's bedside. With a patients-first approach, we are forging new models for working together to better accelerate these transformative medicines to reach those who need them the most.
Position Overview:
Forge Biologics is seeking a Process Development Intern to join our 2023 Ignite Internship Program. In this role, you will have the opportunity to be trained in biomanufacturing development by industry leaders and support the upstream and/or downstream of manufacturing viral vector life-changing gene therapies for human use. You will gain exposure in compiling experimental data, identify areas for improved efficiencies, and get hands-on experience with upstream and/or downstream systems.
Who you are:
- You are a current junior currently enrolled in a full-time bachelor's degree program or a graduate program (master’s / PhD) from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 minimum GPA or equivalent
- You are studying Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or a related field
- You are a self-starter, detail-oriented, collaborative, and organized
- You have some lab or research experience through academic coursework or work experience
- You are inquisitive, like to solve problems and identify areas for process improvement
What you'll do:
- You will perform laboratory techniques (vector purification and/or cell culture) in support of production of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors
- You will execute procedures assuring quality, safety, efficacy, and purity of drug products
- Upstream:
- You will design, plan, perform, document and present on shake flasks and bioreactor experiments optimizing production of AAV
- You will maintain cell growth, transfection, and infection of mammalian cells for rAAV manufacturing
- Downstream:
- You will work on process optimization, and technology transfer to cGMP for virus (rAAV) vectors produced in mammalian and insect cells
- You will assist with harvesting cells, and purifying vectors using density gradients, FPLC, or other techniques
Why you'll love it:
- You’ll work on meaningful and relevant projects while gaining experience in the biotech industry
- You will develop professionally through bi-weekly intern programming including networking with Forge leaders, career management workshops, and exclusive intern community events
- You will be mentored by Forge department leaders and supported through a network of Forge employees (including ERGs, coffee chats, and employee engagement events)
Forge Biologic’s Ignite Internship Program is designed to provide meaningful experiences in a professional environment while giving our interns the experience to network with Senior Leadership and peers through a variety of activities and events. Over the course of the Summer Internship Program, you will work on real business issues/projects and learn from industry leaders. Our interns will work onsite at our offices in Grove City, OH (just 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, Ohio).