2027 Future Talent Program – Discovery Immunology – Co-op (San Diego, CA)

Merck; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 67,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck’s Future Talent Program in San Diego offers a 4–6 month co-op in our Research and Development Division. You will work on projects exploring novel targets in inflammatory and autoimmune indications using primary human cells, CRISPR editing, and cytokine-based assays.

BS, MS, or PhD candidates with immunology, cell biology, or molecular biology backgrounds are encouraged. Strong communication and teamwork are required, with a GPA of 3.2 or higher preferred.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in biological sciences or related field.
• Available for 6-month period starting January 2027.
• On-site full-time in San Diego, CA.
• Strong academic performance and good communication/teamwork.
• GPA 3.2 or higher.

Responsibilities

• Culture primary human cells and cell lines as needed.
• Perform CRISPR editing and biochemical assay development.
• RNA isolation, qPCR, ELISA and cytokine assays.
• Flow cytometry/FACS and microscopy work.
• Collaborate in a multi-functional team and document results.

Skills

Strong academic performance

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

BS/MS/PhD in biological sciences or related field

GPA 3.2 or higher

Job description

Job Description

The Future Talent Program features Cooperative (Co-op) education that lasts up to 6 months and will include one or more projects. These opportunities in our Research and Development Division can provide you with great development and a chance to see if we are the right company for your long-term goals. Co-op students will work within a diverse group studying the role of novel targets in the context of inflammatory and autoimmune indications. This is an exciting opportunity for BS, MS, and PhD level individuals with immunology, cell biology, and/or molecular biology experience to learn and execute key techniques including culturing primary human cells and cell lines, CRISPR editing, biochemical assay development, ELISA and other cytokine-based assays, RNA isolation and quantitative PCR, and flow cytometry/FACS and microscopy. Additionally, successful candidates will have invaluable opportunities to develop and expand their professional networks. We are seeking co-op candidates with strong academic performance, communication and teamwork skills, and the ability to work in a multi-functional environment. Location: San Diego, CA. Co-op position commitment: 4 - 6 months full-time – January through June, 2027.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled in school (through the co-op term) as an undergraduate or graduate student majoring in biological sciences or a related field
• Candidates must be available for a 6-month period starting at the beginning of 2027
• Availability to work full-time on site in San Diego, CA

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, and/or related wet lab techniques
• Prior experience with mammalian cell culture, flow cytometry and/or immunoassays
• Highly motivated and driven and willing to take initiative to learn new science
• Strong team player
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Comfortable using a PC computer and proficient in Windows-based operating systems and basic applications, such as spreadsheets and databases
• 3.2 GPA or higher

Please note that this position may be closed before the posted end date or may remain open longer, at the discretion of the company.

Salary Range

The salary range for this role is $39,108 through $111,111.

FTP2027

RL2027

Employee Status

Intern/Co-op (Fixed Term)

Relocation

No relocation

VISA Sponsorship

No

Travel Requirements

No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements

Not Applicable

Shift

1st - Day

Valid Driving License

No

Hazardous Material(s)

Yes

Job Posting End Date

10/9/2026

• A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

Requisition ID

R413997