For position in Protein Biology:
Internship Opportunity: Resin design and surface chemistry for protein purification
Project Description
The intern will participate in ongoing research projects within the Protein Biology group, focusing on the design, development, and optimization of macromolecule purification strategies. The project may involve the surface chemistry modification of materials to enhance protein capture, selectivity, or stability in purification workflows. The intern will gain hands-on experience in protein expression, purification, and analytical characterization, while also exploring biochemical and biophysical techniques for evaluating surface interactions. This position offers the opportunity to apply interdisciplinary approaches—combining protein science, surface chemistry, and materials analysis—to advance innovative solutions for biomolecule purification and functionalization.
Skills and Abilities
- Must be able to independently design, plan, and execute experiments, analyze data, and perform basic troubleshooting of experimental protocols.
- Demonstrated proficiency in protein purification techniques, including affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography.
- Hands-on experience with gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blotting for protein analysis and characterization.
- Familiarity or strong interest in surface chemistry modification, bioconjugation, or immobilization techniques for macromolecule purification.
- Solid understanding of protein biochemistry, buffer systems, and enzyme or ligand interactions.
- Must have excellent time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple experimental priorities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to maintain detailed lab records, summarize findings, and present results in scientific discussions.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team and contribute constructively to a positive research environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and data analysis tools such as GraphPad Prism or equivalent software.
Qualifications
- Must be a doctoral student in Life Science Research (e.g., Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Protein Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field) at University of Wisconsin–Madison.
- Prior laboratory coursework or research experience in protein expression, purification, and analytical characterization is required.
- Experience with chromatographic instrumentation (e.g., ÄKTA FPLC systems) and protein quantification assays (e.g., BCA, Bradford) is desirable.
- Familiarity with surface modification methods, macromolecular interaction studies, or bioseparation technologies will be considered an advantage.
For position in Sample Prep group:
Internship Opportunity: Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Sample Preparation
The intern will participate in ongoing research and development projects within the Proteomics Sample Prep and Mass Spectrometry (MS) reagents group, focusing on the design, development, and optimization of sample preparation reagents using the liquid chromatography (LC) and mass spectrometry (MS) systems. The project may involve optimizing protein prep for biological samples, evaluating magnetic bead-based reagents, and automating the optimized workflow. The intern will gain hands-on experience in proteomics sample prep, LC/MS-based method development, and data analysis, while learning to troubleshoot and optimize proteomics workflows for MS quantitation. This position offers the opportunity to apply interdisciplinary approaches—combining analytical chemistry, proteomics, and mass spectrometry instrumentation—to develop innovative solutions for mass spectrometry reagents and workflows in life science research.
Skills and Abilities
- Must be able to independently design, plan, and execute experiments, analyze LC/MS data, and troubleshoot basic technical challenges.
- Hands-on experience or strong interest in protein extraction, digestion, and peptide sample preparation for proteomics and LC/MS analysis.
- Familiarity with liquid chromatography (LC) and mass spectrometry (MS) principles for large molecule quantitation and proteomics applications.
- Experience with magnetic bead–based workflows or automation platforms for sample processing is desirable.
- Solid understanding of protein biochemistry, buffer systems, and factors influencing protein solubility and recovery.
- Must have excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple experimental tasks.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to maintain accurate laboratory records, summarize experimental results, and present data effectively in team discussions.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment and contribute constructively to team-based problem solving.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and data analysis tools for experiment tracking and reporting.
Qualifications
- Must be a doctoral student in Life Science Research (e.g., Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Protein Chemistry, Computational Biology, or a related field) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Prior laboratory coursework or research experience in proteomics or protein chemistry, or mass spectrometry, is desirable.
- Experience with protein extraction, sample preparation, or LC/MS-based workflows for peptide and protein analysis is desirable.
- Familiarity with magnetic bead–based purification, automation systems, or liquid-handling platforms will be considered an advantage.
- Knowledge of chromatographic and mass spectrometric instrumentation and their applications in quantitative proteomics is desirable.
- Interest in reagent development, workflow optimization, and applied analytical research within an industrial R&D setting.
How to Apply
This internship is offered through the Graduate School Industry Internship Program. Carefully read the eligibility and application information on the Graduate School Industry Internship Program webpage.