Position description:

Calico is seeking an intern to join the Nile Lab to help characterize the function of novel E3-ligases expressed in tissue-specific and cancer-relevant settings. An intern in the oncology department will get hands-on experience in drug development and will have the opportunity to use and/or develop experience in designing and carrying out biochemical and cellular assays (including but not limited to protein purification, biophysical and enzymatic assays, and mammalian cell culture experiments). 

We are looking for a motivated scientist who is an enthusiastic team player, highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable tackling complex problems at the bench. The successful candidate will work closely with members of the Nile Lab to dissect the mechanisms and biological roles of emerging E3-ligases.

Responsibilities: 

• Perform and design biophysical assays
• Conduct and/or develop biochemical assays
• Perform mammalian tissue culture maintenance and assays
• Maintain accurate experimental records
• Attend weekly 1:1 meetings and participate in team discussions

Position requirements:

• Currently pursuing a PhD in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field
• Hands-on experience with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, solution preparation, record keeping)
• Foundational knowledge of cell biology, biochemistry, protein science, and/or chemistry
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills
• Effective teamwork and communication skills
• Self-motivated with a positive, “can-do” attitude
• Able to multitask and adapt to shifting priorities

Nice to have:

• Experience in purifying recombinant proteins
• Experience in mammalian tissue culture 
• Experience in designing and carrying out biochemical and/or biophysical assays (TR-FRET, western blots, etc.)

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. 

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 ($45 - $70/hour) and monthly living expenses stipend
  

Program Eligibility:

• Able to work in-person at our offices in South San Francisco
• Free for a consecutive period of 11-12 weeks in June, July, and August
• Not graduating before December 2026
  • Exception for students enrolling into a graduate degree program in Fall 2026
• Must be enrolled in a US university
• Must apply by application deadline: February 1, 2026.