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George Mason University
Job Opportunity

Intern, Protein Biochemistry, Tumor and E3-ligase Biology (PhD Student) at Calico Life Sciences

Full Job Details

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 Nile Lab to help characterize the function of novel E3-ligases expressed in tissue-specific and cancer-relevant settings. An intern in the oncology department will get hands-on experience in drug development and will have the opportunity to use and/or develop experience in designing and carrying out biochemical and cellular assays (including but not limited to protein purification, biophysical and enzymatic assays, and mammalian cell culture experiments). We are looking for a motivated scientist who is an enthusiastic team player, highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable tackling complex problems at the bench. The successful candidate will work closely with members of the Nile Lab to dissect the mechanisms and biological roles of emerging E3-ligases.Responsibilities: Perform and design biophysical assaysConduct and/or develop biochemical assaysPerform mammalian tissue culture maintenance and assaysMaintain accurate experimental recordsAttend weekly 1:1 meetings and participate in team discussionsPosition requirements:Currently pursuing a PhD in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related fieldHands-on experience with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, solution preparation, record keeping)Foundational knowledge of cell biology, biochemistry, protein science, and/or chemistryStrong attention to detail and excellent organizational skillsEffective teamwork and communication skillsSelf-motivated with a positive, “can-do” attitudeAble to multitask and adapt to shifting prioritiesNice to have:Experience in purifying recombinant proteinsExperience in mammalian tissue culture Experience in designing and carrying out biochemical and/or biophysical assays (TR-FRET, western blots, etc.)About 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.

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