About the Company
We envision a world where we continuously, sustainably, and affordably improve human life with synthetic biology. Our proprietary set of enzymes and our manufacturing approach enables the production of thousands of amino acids that were previously too difficult and expensive to make. These “noncanonical” amino acids that we make are already catalyzing the creation of revolutionary and innovative products that are good for people and the planet.
Our technology outperforms traditional manufacturing approaches by 10–100x across the board. We already sell products to Big 10 Pharmaceutical companies, and our product family includes the key components of multi-billion dollar blockbuster drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro.
We are a diverse, passionate, interdisciplinary team that finds joy in building something new that leaves the world better than we found it. We strive to always learn and improve and have a deep desire to capitalize on our creativity and be exceptional at what we do.
About the role
If you intern with the Protein Engineering group at Aralez Bio, you will spend the summer learning about protein engineering for biocatalysis. We apply directed evolution to improve enzyme activity for more efficient synthesis of noncanonical amino acid products. You will learn how to clone DNA libraries of diverse enzyme variants, express proteins, and perform in vitro biocatalysis assays. You will learn how to develop and execute medium-throughput assays using automated liquid handling equipment. You will also learn how to use Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) to analyze enzymatic reactions. A basic understanding of molecular biology is required. Prior molecular biology experience is beneficial, but not required.
What You’ll Do
- Perform directed evolution to produce a new enzyme variant that has better activity for a product of interest.
- Develop medium-throughput screening assays using automation to screen the enzyme libraries.
- Screen enzymes for new activity and analyze using LCMS.
- Express our enzymes as needed for follow up experimentation and validation.
- Work as a part of our R&D department for miscellaneous experiments as needed to optimize our current processes.
Schedule and compensation:
This 10-week internship will begin in late May/early June and end in late July/mid August. Work weeks will be 40 hours (Monday-Friday, approximately 9:00-5:00). Compensation is $18/hour. Work is on-site in Berkeley, CA.
Eligibility:
- Registered as a current undergraduate student with at least two years of coursework.
- Overall GPA of at least 3.0.
- Undergraduate coursework in biology, chemistry, and classroom lab experience.
- Unrestricted authorization to work in the United States.
- Committed to full-time summer employment.
Materials needed to apply:
- Resume with a description of your most recent and relevant experiences (professional, scholastic, and/or volunteer).
- Unofficial transcript.
- One-page cover letter answering the following questions:
- Why are you interested in applying to the Aralez Bio Internship Program?
- What is your biology, chemistry, and research experience?
- What are your short-term and/or long-term research and career goals?
Equal Employment Opportunity
Aralez Bio is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, sex, and any other group protected under federal, state, or local laws.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Please reach out if an accommodation is needed. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
What We Do
We have invented a novel enzymatic method for synthesizing noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) also called unusual or unnatural amino acids. Our proprietary approach enables over 100 ncAAs to be synthesized with perfect enantiopurity in just a single step, with water as the only byproduct. To learn more, visit us at www.aralezbio.com
Aralez Bio is a proud member of Cyclotron Road.
