NYGC Autism in the Workplace Summer Internship

NYGC’s Summer Internship Program is designed to provide students hands-on mentorship from an assigned mentor. You will gain exposure to Research Computing, Genomics, and the research that we do, as well as have the opportunity to interact with top genomic researchers. We value unique perspectives, creativity, and innovative thinking. We actively seek to create an environment where neurodivergent individuals can thrive and bring their authentic selves to work. In addition, NYGC interns will be able to attend and participate in a wide variety of other events scheduled specially for our Summer Intern group, including weekly workshops, presentations, career panels, social events (optional) and much more. The expected duration of the internship is June 2nd, 2025 – July 25th, 2025.

The Autism in the Workplace Summer Internship Program is a partnership between the Simons Foundation and the New York Genome Center. The mission of the Autisim in the Workplace Program is to increase employment opportunities for people with autism. The program will support 2 summer interns, one for each of the following programs: 

Gürsoy Lab - Research Intern:

This internship opportunity is part of an innovative research project investigating the permeation of DNA into soil at gravesites. The study aims to provide a technique to determine the presence of remains in the ground without disturbing the gravesite. The outcome of this work will be relevant to forensic science, archaeology, and human rights advocacy. This position would entail running a metagenomic classification analysis of DNA extracted from soil cores taken at a non-human animal gravesite. The intern’s responsibilities will contribute to the project by conducting the bioinformatic analysis of total DNA extracted from soil cores. Specific duties include establishing a pipeline for data analysis – i.e., quality control, ancient DNA damage patterns, metagenomic classification criteria, etc. This position is suitable for individuals with experience in genetics or computer science, particularly those with proficiency using command-line tools and/or programming languages such as Python or R.

The Information Security Department - Cyber Security Intern:

The Information Security Department oversees the protection of NYGC’s critical data, systems, and infrastructure. This includes safeguarding sensitive research data, securing access to high-performance compute environments, monitoring threats, developing and delivering training, maintaining physical security, and ensuring compliance with various regulatory requirements. The team utilizes cutting-edge tools, methodologies, and frameworks, including intrusion detection systems, vulnerability scanning tools, and secure development practices.

The Intern will have the unique opportunity to learn about the cybersecurity challenges and solutions involved in protecting genomic research and data. Working in an environment that processes large volumes of sensitive data, you will gain hands-on experience in securing systems and responding to real-world threats, while developing a security culture through multiple avenues. As a Cybersecurity Intern, you will assist the Information Security team with tasks such as:

Security Monitoring:

• Assist in monitoring security tools for potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Analyze security logs and alerts to identify and escalate potential incidents.

Risk Management:

• Support the review and assessment of organizational risks.
• Participate in vulnerability scanning and reporting.

Policy Development and Awareness:

• Assist in drafting and reviewing cybersecurity policies and procedures.
• Help develop training materials and awareness campaigns for staff and volunteers.

Incident Response:

• Participate in simulations and assist with response plans for security incidents.
• Document and organize findings from incident response activities.

Research and Innovation:

• Stay updated on current cybersecurity threats and trends.
• Research tools, techniques, and technologies to improve our security posture.

General Support:

• Provide administrative support to the Information Security team as needed.
• Collaborate with other departments to promote secure practices.

About the New York Genome Center

The New York Genome Center (NYGC) is an independent, nonprofit, academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas: neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s), and cancer.

Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with the leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions. Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty, whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in areas of mutual interest to us and the wider scientific community.

Equal Opportunity

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to NYGC’s core mission. We strive to create a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, or religion. We believe that when people of various backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives work together in an inclusive and equitable environment we gain new and valuable perspectives that otherwise would have been missed. Valuing and supporting all NYGC employees as individuals while helping them realize their full potential is critical to promoting greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery – fostering a sense of belonging for our greatest strength, our people. We recognize that there is still work to be done that will require sustained commitment from the entire organization.

The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. NYGC takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. 

We are committed to creating a welcoming environment for neurodivergent individuals and believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. We value your unique skills and will provide the resources and flexibility you need to succeed. If you require accommodations during the hiring process, please let us know.
 

Required Skills

Eligibility requirements

• This position is particularly well-suited for individuals on the autism spectrum who thrive in detail-oriented tasks
• U.S citizen or U.S. permanent resident
• Undergraduate student or recent undergraduate in a related course of study
• Available to work full-time on their project for the duration of the internship

Who Should Apply?

• Undergraduate students with a strong interest in a scientific or non-profit organization
  
  • Candidate qualifications for Research Intern:
    •  Proficiency using command-line tools and/or programming languages such as Python or R
    • Background in any of the following areas: statistical genetics, machine learning, neuroscience.
  • Candidate qualifications for Cyber Security Intern:
    • Enrolled or completed a degree in computer science, cybersecurity, information technology, or a related field.
    • Proficiency with baseline threat analysis
    • Familiarity with NIST SP 800-53 rev 5, SP 800-171 rev 3, and CSF v 2.0 highly desired
    • Coding/Software Engineering  experience is not  required

Stipend

Interns will earn an $8,000 stipend for their participation in the program.

Application Required Documents

• Unofficial school transcript
• CV/ resume
• Personal statement (1-2 pages) addressing the following:

                  Your academic/professional background and your interests in STEM

                  Why are you interested in the Autism in the Workplace Summer Internship Program?

                  Please indicate which internship position you are applying for. 

                  Previous research experience, if any.

Required Experience

• Upperclass undergraduate in a related course of study
• Available to work full-time on their project for the duration of the internship