Intern, Biophysical Characterization of 𝝰-synuclein in Living Cells (PhD Student) at Calico Life Sciences

Employer: Calico Life Sciences

Expires: 02/15/2026

Who We Are:Calico (Calico Life Sciences LLC) is an Alphabet-founded research and development company whose mission is to harness advanced technologies and model systems to increase our understanding of the biology that controls human aging. Calico will use that knowledge to devise interventions that enable people to lead longer and healthier lives. Calico’s highly innovative technology labs, its commitment to curiosity-driven discovery science, and, with academic and industry partners, its vibrant drug-development pipeline, together create an inspiring and exciting place to catalyze and enable medical breakthroughs.Position description:Calico is seeking an intern to join the Parkinson’s Disease Initiative. To succeed, you will need to be an enthusiastic team player, detail-oriented, extremely organized and comfortable working on complex problems.  In this position you will develop a novel imaging-based experimental system to study 𝝰-synuclein dynamics in vitro and in living cells, focusing on its oligomerization and aggregation regulated by disease-relevant perturbation. The successful candidate will work closely with members of the Parkinson’s Disease Initiative and the imaging team to develop a labeling strategy for 𝝰-synuclein using codon expansion technology. Responsibilities: Optimize a genetic code expansion approach to site-specifically label alpha synuclein with fluorophoresProof-of-concept implementation of the labeling system in cell culturePerform biophysical characterization of labeled synuclein using rotational diffusion methods fluorescence polarization and tumbling methods in vitro and in living cellsExplore experimental perturbations to induce changes in synuclein trafficking, oligomerization, aggregation and clearancePosition requirements:Currently pursuing a PhD degree, in biophysics, cell biology, neuroscience or a related field Experience working with fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometryKnowledge of physical modeling of biological processes, quantitative imaging analysisFamiliarity with standard molecular biology and tissue culture methodsDetail-oriented and organizedStrong teamwork and communication skillsSelf-motivated with a “can-do” attitudeFlexible, able to respond quickly to shifting priorities and able to multitaskNice to have:Experience in genetic screening, codon expansion system, Parkinson’s diseaseAbout our Program:Calico’s internship program is a paid 12-week program over the summer for students interested in understanding the fundamental science of aging and finding treatments for the associated and intractable diseases. Working in a collaborative environment and fully embedded in one of our labs/teams, Calico interns tackle a unique project under the mentorship of at least one of our scientists or engineers. Program Features:3-month summer timelineIn-person experience at our offices in South San FranciscoMatching with at least one Calico mentorGroup supplemental activities weekly featuring guest speakers, Senior Leadership spotlights, and discussion groups on aging science, our drug development approach, and moreEnd-of-summer company-wide project showcase and poster sessionCompetitive compensation ($45 - $70/hour) and monthly living expenses stipend Program Eligibility:Able to work in-person at our offices in South San FranciscoFree for a consecutive period of 11-12 weeks in June, July, and AugustNot graduating before December 2026Exception for students enrolling into a graduate degree program in Fall 2026Must be enrolled in a US universityMust apply by application deadline: February 1, 2026.