About the role#
The Formulation Science Internship focuses on the analytical characterization and formulation of biologic drug candidates. You will support the development of stable pharmaceutical products intended for manufacturing in microgravity. This role combines hands-on laboratory work, scientific data analysis, and collaboration with formulation scientists to advance biologic therapeutics.
What you'll do#
- Perform biophysical characterization of protein candidates using orthogonal analytical techniques to assess structure, stability, and interaction behavior.
- Design and execute binding and selection studies between disordered protein stabilizers and microcrystalline pharmaceutical substrates.
- Evaluate stabilizer performance through lyophilization and reconstitution cycles, assessing protein integrity before and after freeze-drying stress.
- Conduct purity and charge variant analysis via SDS-PAGE and capillary isoelectric focusing.
- Prepare reagents, buffers, and sample sets to ensure experiments run on schedule.
- Maintain accurate, well-documented records in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
- Collaborate with formulation scientists to anticipate laboratory needs and contribute to team meetings.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an accredited bachelor's or graduate degree program in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
- Junior, Senior, or Graduate academic standing.
- Prior hands-on laboratory experience in an academic or industry setting.
- Knowledge of basic analytical techniques for protein characterization.
- Familiarity with one or more techniques such as DLS, nanoDSF, SEC, CD, or capillary electrophoresis.
- Background in protein formulation, biologics drug product development, or protein biochemistry.
- Familiarity with lyophilization, freeze-drying, or related solid-state processing methods.
- Experience with data analysis tools such as GraphPad Prism, Python, or MATLAB.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow experimental protocols precisely.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Interest in space medicine, in-orbit manufacturing, or the orbital economy.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship based in El Segundo, California.
- The program runs during the summer of 2027, with dates dependent on your university schedule.
- This position is paid at an hourly rate of $33.00.
- Candidates must be U.S. persons as defined by export control regulations.
About Varda Space Industries
Varda Space Industries operates in the defense and space manufacturing sector. The company focuses on orbital infrastructure, including pharmaceutical processing and reentry capsules. It produces items that require manufacturing in space, such as fiber optic cables and medical products. Founded in 2021, the firm maintains its headquarters in El Segundo, California. It currently employs over 250 people.
How to get in at Varda Space Industries
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