Intern, Drug Substance Upstream Pilot Development

Job Description

This application is for a 12-week internship role from June - August 2025. Resume review begins in January 2025. 

The Drug Substance Upstream Pilot Development team is involved in the scale-up, facility fit, and technology transfer of Biogen’s antibody drugs. The team employs engineering principles to ensure that each new cell culture processes are successfully reproducible when scaling up from 3L to 15,000+L bioreactors. The Upstream Pilot Scale team successfully generates cell culture material containing therapeutic proteins that are used in various studies throughout Biogen’s Technical Development Department during the clinical and commercial development of an antibody drug. The Upstream Pilot Lab also serves as a space for evaluating new technologies for feasibility and potential benefits for large-scale GMP manufacturing.  

Position Description 

Principal Accountabilities: 

• Perform and document experiments at pilot-scale (50-1000L bioreactors) to support development of mammalian cell culture processes for recombinant protein production. Support experiments with foam monitoring and control technologies. Evaluate foam control technologies used to decrease risks of high-pressure events and to improve batch-to-batch consistency for antifoam dosing (pilot-scale). 
• Document development work in an electronic lab notebook. Contribute to experimental planning and preparation based on experience and department scheduling. Collaboratively work with team members to ensure lab experiments are well-planned and executed. 
• Analyze data related to foam control technologies collected at pilot scale. Benchmark technologies to determine best practical fit for pilot-scale and manufacturing scale environments. Author and present a readiness package/action plan for transferring foam control technology to Manufacturing   
• Researches foam in the context of mammalian cell culture processing. Research to include importance and impact of antifoam, relative frequency of high-pressure events at Biogen, antifoam addition variability, associated cost of automated antifoam delivery systems, opportunity cost associated with maintaining status quo /manual additions. 
• Collaborate with metrology and automation groups to develop automated tools for controlling foam in Pilot scale lab 
• Support lab maintenance tasks and lab harmonization and workflow optimizations. Daily checks and preparation of all analytical instruments, routine instrument maintenance (except specialized instruments), and perform real-time troubleshooting and vendor engagement as needed. 

Qualifications

• Competency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint 

To participate in the Biogen Internship Program, students must meet the following eligibility criteria: 

• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. 
• At least 18 years of age prior to the scheduled start date 
• Be currently enrolled in an accredited community college, college or university, with a graduation date no earlier than August 2025.

Education 

• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering (Chemical/Biomolecular, Electrical, Mechanical), Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or Biology discipline preferred 

Location

• This role is on-site in Research Triangle Park, NC

Additional Information

Why Biogen?

We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.

At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about our DE&I efforts.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law. Biogen is an E-Verify Employer in the United States.