Research and Development Intern – In vivo and Preclinical support

Axoft; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 15,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Axoft in Cambridge, MA is seeking a highly motivated R&D Intern to support in vivo experiments and surgical workflows. This role provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in neuroscience and translational neurotechnology, assisting with large animal studies and experimental operations.

Ideal candidates are pursuing relevant degrees and have a strong attention to detail, alongside a desire to contribute to cutting-edge research in the neurotechnology field.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from relevant degree programs.
• Experience working with research animals including rodents and porcine models.
• Basic understanding of histology or tissue processing.

Responsibilities

• Assist with surgical procedures for large animals.
• Maintain accurate documentation of tissue workflows.
• Work closely with neuroscientists and engineers.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Collaboration skills

Organizational skills

Education

B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Biology, Neuroscience or related field

Tools

Histology tools

Neural recording systems

Job description

Summary

Axoft is building the most advanced and scalable platform for implantable brain‑machine interfaces. Our mission is to enable minimally invasive, long‑term stable, and ultrahigh‑bandwidth communication with the brain—unlocking new therapies and treatments for neurological disorders and physical disabilities. We have bridged the gap between electronic and biological materials to create the softest, nanofabricated brain implants in the world. We are now expanding our interdisciplinary team with individuals who are passionate, results‑driven, and committed to solving complex problems with creativity and scientific rigor.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated R&D Intern to support in vivo experiments, surgical workflows, and neural data collection. This role is ideal for candidates interested in neuroscience, animal research, and translational neurotechnology, with opportunities to gain hands‑on experience in large animal studies, electrophysiology, and experimental operations.

• Location: Cambridge, MA (On‑site)
• Duration: 6 months (longer duration preferred)
• Team: Preclinical

Key Responsibilities

Surgical support

• Assist with surgical procedures for large animals (e.g. porcine)
• Assist with in vivo neural recordings (setup, monitoring, documentation)
• Support behavioral, acute, and terminal experimental workflows
• Assist with ex vivo testing and validation experiments

Tissue Processing & Histology Support

• Support histological data analysis, coordination, and sample tracking
• Maintain accurate documentation of tissue workflows and experimental outputs

Lab Operations & Collaboration

• Maintain surgical and experimental equipment and workspace organization
• Manage inventory, consumables, and experiment preparation
• Ensure materials and setups are ready for time‑sensitive studies
• Work closely with neuroscientists, engineers, and external partners
• Communicate observations clearly and support efficient experiment execution

Eligibility Requirements

• Open to students currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. program in Biology, Neuroscience or related field.
• Undergraduate students must be in their junior year or higher
• International students in U.S.-based programs must be CPT‑eligible and have approval from their academic advisor

Qualifications

• Pursuing or recently completed a degree in Biology, Neuroscience or a related field
• Experience working with research animals including rodents, porcine models, and/or monkey models
• Basic understanding of histology or tissue processing.
• Strong attention to detail, organized workflow, and ability to work independently
• Eagerness to learn and contribute to real‑world neurotechnology projects
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience analyzing extracellular electrophysiological neuron recordings.
• Experience in neural implant surgery, neuromodulation therapies, neuroprosthetics, or related neurotechnologies.
• Experience with immune staining, biological imaging, and related data analysis

What You’ll Gain

• Hands‑on experience with preclinical neuroscience research
• Exposure to surgical workflows and neural recording systems
• Opportunity to contribute directly to translational neurotechnology development
• Experience working in a fast‑paced, interdisciplinary R&D environment