Intern, Microphysiological Systems (MS or PhD)

Position description:

Calico is seeking an intern to join the Microfluidics team. 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 design and develop a Vessel-on-a-Chip platform, integrating Organ-On-a-Chip technology and in vitro 3D vascular networks. The successful candidate will work closely with members with expertise in  Microfluidics, Vascular Biology, Microscopy, and Data Science, on developing a 3D in vitro Organ-on-a-Chip platform to uncover valuable insights into the process of vascular aging.

Responsibilities: 

• Collaborating closely with engineers and biologists to develop a Vessel-On-a-Chip platform
• Leading the design, build, and testing of microfluidic chips
• Applying design of experiments (DOE) to integrate vascular cells within the system and create a functional vascular bed
• Establishing initial experiments to assess the model's efficacy
• Documenting results, analyze data, and presenting conclusions to collaborators and across Calico

Position requirements:

• Currently pursuing an MS or PhD degree in Bioengineering/Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, Biology/Biomedical Sciences, Biophysics or related field
• Demonstrated success in microfluidic development through functional knowledge in fluid dynamics and the ability to rapidly design, test and iterate
• Experience with primary cell culture in 2D and 3D, immunostaining, and Organ-On-a-Chip systems
• Experience with microfabrication techniques including Photolithography and/or 3D printing, and working in cleanroom environment
• Knowledge of CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or other related software)
• 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 in designing and fabricating microfluidic devices and 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering, specifically vascular models
• Experience working with vascular primary cells (ECs, SMCs) and basic knowledge of vascular biology
• Experience with high resolution microscopy and fluorescent imaging

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