Intern, Oncology (MS or PhD)

Position description:

Calico is seeking an intern to join the Firestone lab. To succeed, you will need to be an enthusiastic team player, detail-oriented, extremely organized and comfortable working on complex problems.  Research in the Firestone lab focuses on identifying cell state-specific dependencies that can be selectively targeted in cancer. In this position you will work closely with members of the Firestone Lab to explore how different epigenetic perturbations interact to modulate cancer cell survival and proliferation.

Responsibilities: 

• Characterize hits from a genetic modifier screen in additional cell-based models
• Conduct follow-up cell-based assays and/or chromatin state characterization experiments to explore biological mechanisms of resistance and vulnerability to epigenetic perturbations
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, generate reports, and communicate findings to lab members
• Showcase your work in a poster board presentation at the conclusion of your internship

Position requirements:

• Currently pursuing an MS or PhD degree in Cancer Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, or related field
• Applicants must have significant prior experience with mammalian tissue culture and a strong general background in molecular biology techniques
• Detail-oriented and organized
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Self-motivated with a “can-do” attitude
• Flexible, able to respond quickly to shifting priorities and able to multitask

Nice to have:

• Experience with CRISPR screening technologies, working with genomics datasets, and/or competency in python/R-based data analysis is a significant plus

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. Students from all schools, and students who identify with a demographic that is underrepresented within the technology, data science, and healthcare industries are encouraged to apply. This includes but is not limited to Black, Latinx, Native American, students with disabilities, veterans, and non-binary people.

Program Features:

• 3-month summer timeline
• In-person experience at our offices in South San Francisco
• Matching with at least one Calico mentor
• Group supplemental activities weekly featuring guest speakers, Senior Leadership spotlights, and discussion groups on aging science, our drug development approach, and more
• End-of-summer company-wide project showcase and poster session
• Competitive compensation ($40 - $65/hour) and monthly living expenses stipend