Position Overview: 

Beam is looking for a highly motivated co-op student to join our mRNA Science Team from January to June of 2027. The co-op will assist in screening different sequences of mRNA and chemical modification to enhance the quality of mRNA used across multiple programs. Specifically, this role will involve performing and optimizing in vitro transcription (IVT) reactions and running biochemical assays to characterize the mRNA products. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, persistent, highly organized, and enjoys hands-on laboratory work. This position will involve testing multiple mRNA samples using established experimental workflows and generating high-quality data to support mRNA research efforts. The co-op will gain exposure to a broad range of molecular biology and cell-based techniques while working closely with scientists across multiple teams.  

Responsibilities: 

• Maintain and culture mammalian cell lines for mRNA expression studies.
• Perform transfection experiments to evaluate mRNA constructs with different sequence designs and chemical modifications.
• Conduct protein expression and other biochemical assays to characterize mRNA performance.
• Analyze and interpret experimental results using appropriate data analysis tools.
• Process and evaluate multiple samples with careful attention to accuracy, consistency, and documentation.
• Collaborate with other teams to support cell-based editing and mRNA evaluation studies.
• Maintain detailed documentation of experiments in the ELN system.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety requirements and procedures.
• Contribute to molecular cloning, DNA preparation, and in vitro transcription (IVT) experiments as needed. 

Qualifications:  

Required Qualifications 

• Pursuing a BS or MS in Biological Sciences or a related field (Bioengineering, Biochemistry/Biophysics, Cell Biology/Molecular Biology, or similar).
• At least one year of relevant hands-on laboratory experience.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique.
• Experience with mammalian cell transfection and cell-based assays.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive experimental workflows with consistency and accuracy.
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and data analysis.
• Experience maintaining a laboratory notebook and following written protocols.
• Highly motivated to learn, with a collaborative mindset, strong organizational skills, and effective communication skills.
• Applicants must be currently enrolled in a degree-granting college or university program and maintain their student status throughout the duration of the co-op. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience with protein expression analysis or related biochemical assays.
• Experience with molecular cloning, plasmid DNA preparation, and in vitro transcription (IVT).
• Familiarity with mRNA biology, gene expression studies, or nucleic acid therapeutics.