Microbial Culture Intern, Early Discovery (part-time)

About Hexagon Bio

Hexagon Bio leverages a genomics-based platform and understanding of natural product evolution to develop next-generation medicines for human disease. Hexagon Bio's algorithms identify gene clusters that encode the machinery needed to produce specialized metabolites that can be harnessed against human disease targets. Our unique platform allows us to produce new chemical leads based on these findings. We use data science, genomics, synthetic biology, and automation to discover potent, evolutionarily refined small molecules and their cognate targets from fungal genomes. 

Location: Menlo Park, California

Job Description:

We are seeking a part-time, year-round Microbial Culture Intern (schedule tbd) on the Early Discovery team, who will play a critical role in the operation of our Fermentation and Microbial Physiology team. The ideal candidate for this role should possess hands-on experience in a Biosafety Level 2 laboratory environment and be familiar with performing microbial cell culture with one or more bacterial or fungal species. The successful candidate will have strong attention to detail and organizational skills and the ability to follow protocols and guidelines to enable successful workflows of propagation- and production-focused microbial cell cultures at various scales ranging from microliters to liters.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare microbiological nutrient media, acid solutions, and base solutions, and work with other relevant reagents
• Seed, grow, and freeze microbial cell cultures
• Sample cultures along time courses and prepare samples for physical, chemical, and biological analyses
• Assist with bioreactor fermentation operations
• Assist with genetic engineering of microorganisms
• Keep accurate records of work in a lab notebook
• Maintain a clean and sanitary work area
• Follow standard operating procedures and clearly communicate with the team

Key Qualifications:

• Experience with microbial cell culture, serial dilutions, and sterile technique
• Excellent real-time arithmetic and algebraic calculation ability
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to excellence
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, start-up environment

What We Offer:

• A flexible and dynamic work environment, where you pave your own path; Hexagon cultivates the unique strengths of employees at all levels and provides mobility across departments.
• Monthly “All Hands Meetings” provide an opportunity to share company and team updates. These meetings are rooted in our value of transparency and designed to foster a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and open communication.
• A range of amenities, courtesy of the Menlo Park Labs business park including shuttle, gym, rock-climbing wall, pool, sports courts, cafe, bike lockers, and free EV charging stations.
• Opportunities to engage with the Hexagon community through team-building events like our monthly Hexagon Happy Hour and holiday parties.

This is a non-exempt, 1-year internship for up to 20 hours per week. Onsite attendance in Menlo Park, California is required. The pay range for this intern position is $25 - $35 per hour. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Hexagon Bio is an equal opportunity employer and committed to a diverse workplace.  All applicants will be considered equally without regard to race, color, ethnicity, veteran status, religion, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, membership in an organization or any other non-merit factors.