Lab Research Assistant Internship

Summary:

The Center for Biocatalysis and Bioprocessing (CBB) is pleased to announce Laboratory research assistant summer internships for undergraduate students interested in biotechnology.

Biotechnology is technology derived from living cells and represents a growing segment of the U.S. and world economies. The CBB operates a novel bioprocessing facility that specializes in the biotech production of proteins of research or commercial value. The interns will be embedded with the operation of this facility.

Job Title: Research Assistant – Internship

Organization: The Center for Biocatalysis and Bioprocessing (CBB)

Internship is available for: Summer (6/9/25 – 8/1/25)

Is this a paid internship? Yes - $16 per hour.

Hours per Week: 20 (M-F, 8:00am – 12:00pm)

Location: CBB - 2501 Crosspark Rd. Suite C, Coralville, IA

Learning objectives :

These interns will learn about aseptic techniques, production of proteins in living cells, monitoring fermentation processes, and methods available to purify the target protein. Specific learning objectives are to:

• Understand the importance of general lab cleaning including proper disposal of biohazardous materials.
• Learn procedures for weight measurements at different scales.
• Master quantitative pipetting techniques
• Prepare solutions of the acids and bases required for fermentations
• Appreciate the need for aseptic techniques and the use of biological safety cabinets
• Sterilize glassware, media using a commercial size autoclave
• Operate a 30 L stainless steel fermenter
• Use of a microscope to view and count living cells
• Calibrate and use a bench pH meter
• Perform cell density measurements during fermentations

Qualifications:

·       Science majors with an interest in biotechnology, attention to detail, and an eagerness to learn

Employment contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.

References will be requested at a later step in the process.

The University of Iowa prohibits discrimination in employment, educational programs, and activities on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences. The university also affirms its commitment to providing equal opportunities and equal access to university facilities. For additional information on nondiscrimination policies, contact the Senior Director, Office of Civil Rights Compliance (https://diversity.uiowa.edu/daod/ocrc) ,the University of Iowa, 202 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242-1316, 319-335-0705, daod-ocrc@uiowa.edu (mailto:daod-ocrc@uiowa.edu).