Summer Intern, Research

The Summer Intern position at Vaxcyte involves a hands-on experience in research, where you'll assist with chromatography experiments, prepare samples, and perform data analysis related to protein purification. The internship is structured to provide valuable insights into biochemistry and vaccine development, enhancing both academic and professional skills.

To qualify for the Summer Intern position at Vaxcyte, candidates must be pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry or a related field, with at least two years of university completed. A minimum of one Biochemistry course with a grade of B or higher, plus prior research lab experience, is also required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and a strong collaborative spirit are important for success in this role.

As a Summer Intern at Vaxcyte, you will gain critical skills in chromatography for protein purification, experimental design, and data interpretation. You will also gain practical experience with laboratory equipment and techniques, enhancing your biochemistry knowledge and preparing you for a successful career in science and research.

The Summer Internship at Vaxcyte typically lasts around ten weeks, beginning in June or July. Interns will be expected to work about eight hours per day, allowing for immersive, hands-on learning experiences in a collaborative research environment.

The Summer Intern position at Vaxcyte is paid, with an hourly salary range of $23-$26, depending on academic standing. However, it does not include any additional benefits, and a relocation or housing stipend will not be provided to interns.

When asked about chromatography techniques, share specific experiences where you used these methods. Discuss your understanding of FPLC and how it relates to protein purification. Mention any related lab courses you’ve taken and how they prepared you for the role at Vaxcyte.

Highlight your collaborative experiences in previous projects. Emphasize communication skills, flexibility in ideas, and how diverse contributions enhance project outcomes. It's vital to showcase your understanding of Vaxcyte's core values, especially 'Lead with Heart.'

Express your passion for biochemistry and how Vaxcyte's mission aligns with your career goals. Discuss your interest in vaccine development and how the opportunity presents a perfect blend of learning and real-world application in a cutting-edge environment.

Acknowledge potential challenges such as complex experimental protocols or equipment malfunctions. Discuss how you would tackle these issues by maintaining meticulous attention to detail, seeking guidance from mentors, and staying adaptable when faced with obstacles.

Discuss specific courses and projects that have equipped you with relevant skills. Highlight any biochemistry courses, lab work, or research experiences that have built a strong foundation for advanced experimental techniques you'll engage with as a Summer Intern.

Stress the importance of feedback as a tool for growth. Talk about your willingness to learn from critiques, adapt your methods, and how this approach leads to improved outcomes. Relate this back to Vaxcyte's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

Finally, illustrate a specific instance where you encountered a challenge within a team. Emphasize your problem-solving skills, how you communicated with your team, and what the outcome was, linking it back to your readiness for the collaborative work at Vaxcyte.

Be prepared to explain any relevant coursework or projects that involved data analysis techniques. Discuss your familiarity with SDS-PAGE and Western Blotting, and your approach to interpreting results. Connecting this back to your potential contributions at Vaxcyte will be valuable.

Demonstrate your knowledge of Vaxcyte's mission to innovate vaccines and how its core values resonate with you personally. Show genuine enthusiasm for the company's objectives and express how you see yourself contributing to its goals in your role as a Summer Intern.

Explain your organizational strategies, such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines, and regularly communicating progress with supervisors. Emphasize your adaptability when unexpected tasks arise, showing your readiness for the dynamic environment at Vaxcyte.