Intern

Bluestem Biosciences, Inc.; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 11,160 - 22,320; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Monthly stipend

Job summary

Bluestem Biosciences, Inc. offers an internship program designed for mutual exploration and growth. You will gain hands-on experience in biomanufacturing and AI-enabled projects, while contributing to Bluestem's mission to advance bio-based chemicals.

The program emphasizes professional development, structured onboarding, and clear project deliverables, with a monthly stipend and sponsor mentorship from senior leaders across R&D and engineering.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in a relevant field (scientific, engineering, or business).
• Strong academic record and genuine passion for Bluestem's mission.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to thrive in a dynamic startup environment.
• Proactive, curious mindset with eagerness to learn, contribute, and take on challenges.

Responsibilities

• Gain industry-relevant skills through projects aligned with Bluestem's mission.
• Collaborate with a sponsor/manager and deliver clear project outcomes.
• Engage in bio-based chemical market development and related tool use.
• Receive ongoing feedback to support a productive learning experience.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Proactive mindset

Curiosity-driven learning

Education

Undergraduate or graduate degree in a relevant field

Job description

ABOUT US:

We use American corn and existing bioethanol infrastructure to produce critical chemicals right here at home—powering U.S. competitiveness and securing our nation's supply chains - while reinvesting in agricultural America. Bluestem Biosciences has engineered a breakthrough in American manufacturing. Our proprietary biomanufacturing process represents a new, cost-effective, and advantaged way to produce platform chemicals domestically. With the foundation of existing infrastructure, we convert abundant, renewable American corn into high-value chemicals at scale.

JOIN US AS WE ACCELERATE TO COMMERCIALIZATION

ROLE SUMMARY:

Mutual Exploration

An internship at Bluestem isn't just about work; it's an opportunity for both you and Bluestem Biosciences to explore a potential future together. We believe in a two-way street, where you gain valuable experience with Bluestem and we discover new talent

Artificial intelligence

How can you use AI to expand your knowledge and role to make a larger impact on Bluestem?

Real-World Impact

Contribute to projects that deliver tangible advancements in industrial biotechnology and sustainable action, playing a key role in driving the economic prosperity and development of the bioeconomy sector in the Midwest

Professional Development

Gain industry-relevant skills and knowledge in a cutting-edge field, enhancing your career prospects and professional network

Monthly Stipend

We value your time and commitment. Bluestem offers a monthly stipend to support you during your program

Program Structure

• Commitment: This program requires a dedication of specific hours each week, offering a balance of work, team-engagement, and personal growth. Key deliverables will be assigned during the term.
• Onboarding: Begin with an introduction to our thesis and approach to bio-based chemicals and our thoughtful organizational structure and cultural principles. Then dive in with your sponsor on the background information specific to projects and background information.
• Project Deliverables: Work on projects that directly contribute to Bluestem's mission, such as developing bio-based chemical markets, downstream separation processes, computational biology tools, or strain engineering strategies. With clear scope and deliverables, we set you up for success!
• Evaluation & Feedback: Receive continuous support and feedback from a dedicated sponsor/manager, ensuring a productive learning experience.

PREVIOUS (SUCCESSFUL) EXAMPLES:

• Research / Science (Biology) – Research assistant working with CSO (Jared Wenger) and VP, R&D (Kate Curran) on research and composition projects. Gain direct exposure to biochemistry and synthetic biology, contributing to Bluestem's scientific research
• Business / Finance / Strategy – Work directly with the CEO (Billy Hagstrom) and Advisory Board on business strategy, financial modeling, industry research (especially chemical industry), and competitor analysis. Strong written and verbal communication skills required
• Chemical Engineering – Join the engineering team (led by COO, Tyler Autera) to assist in process development, optimization, and scale-up of Bluestem’s bio-based chemical production. Gain hands-on experience with process modeling, experimental design, and data analysis

REQUIREMENTS:

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in a relevant field (scientific, engineering, or business).
• A strong academic record and a genuine passion for Bluestem's mission.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment
• A proactive and curious mindset with an eagerness to learn, contribute, and take on new challenges.

Bluestem is an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.