Roche Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) & Molecular Biology Graduate Internship

Roche; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 201,000 - 268,000; Full time

Job summary

Roche Diagnostics in Cape Town invites recent graduates to join a 12-month Next-Generation Sequencing and Molecular Biology Internship. Gain hands-on experience with genomic and enzymatic technologies that underpin diagnostic solutions and global health.

You'll perform NGS library prep, enzyme biotechnology tasks, and core molecular biology methods, while documenting results, collaborating with scientists, and contributing to product development and quality control.

Qualifications

• Recently completed Honours or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Biochemistry or related field.
• Hands-on experience with DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR and gel electrophoresis.

Responsibilities

• Perform NGS library preparation for diverse applications.
• Contribute to enzyme biotechnology projects and protein expression workflows.
• Master core molecular biology techniques including PCR/qPCR and nucleic acid quantification.
• Utilize QC instruments such as Qubit, Bioanalyzer and LightCycler for quality checks.
• Maintain detailed lab records and prepare clear reports.
• Support lab operations and safety with reagent prep and inventory tasks.

Skills

NGS library preparation

PCR/qPCR

DNA/RNA extraction

Biotech laboratory techniques

Data analysis basics

Education

Honours Degree in Molecular Biology or related field

Tools

Qubit

Bioanalyzer

LightCycler

TapeStation

Job description

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) & Molecular Biology Graduate Internship Program

Ready to turn your academic passion for genomics into real-world impact?

The Roche Diagnostics R&D teams in Cape Town are seeking a highly motivated and talented recent graduate to join our 12-month Internship program. This is a unique opportunity to move beyond theory and gain hands-on experience at the cutting edge of genomic and enzymatic technologies, contributing to diagnostic solutions that improve lives worldwide.

What You'll Do

• Execute NGS Library Preparation: Perform complex, high-throughput library preparations for diverse applications like whole-genome sequencing, RNA-Seq, and target enrichment
• Contribute to Enzyme Biotechnology Activities: Participate in innovative enzyme engineering projects, from design and optimization to protein expression and purification using advanced bioreactor and chromatography techniques
• Perform Core Molecular Biology Techniques: Master fundamental methods with precision, including PCR/qPCR, DNA/RNA extraction and quantification, and gel electrophoresis
• Carry out Quality Control (QC) methods: Use state-of-the-art instruments like the Qubit, Bioanalyzer, and LightCycler to ensure the highest quality for nucleic acid samples and libraries
• Maintain Detailed Documentation: Keep meticulous lab records, analyze experimental data, and prepare clear, comprehensive reports to support project goals
• Support Laboratory Operations: Assist with reagent preparation, inventory management, and upholding the highest standards of safety and operational procedures

Who You Are

We're looking for recent graduates who bring a strong academic foundation and a genuine enthusiasm for biotechnology.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: You have recently completed (within the last two years) at minimum an Honours Degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Biochemistry, or a closely related field
• Essential Lab Experience: You have proven, hands-on experience with general molecular biology techniques from your academic or research lab work, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, and gel electrophoresis

Highly Desirable Experience:

• Practical experience with NGS library preparation protocols
• Hands-on use of QC instruments (e.g., Bioanalyzer, TapeStation)
• Experience in enzyme engineering or protein expression and purification

Key Skills:

• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset

What You'll Gain

• Advanced, Hands-On Training: Work directly with commercial-grade NGS platforms and state-of-the-art lab automation
• Invaluable Industry Exposure: Experience the full product development lifecycle, from early-stage research to commercial production
• Dedicated Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance and career advice from our senior scientists and specialists
• A Clear Career Pathway: Develop highly sought-after skills that are critical for a successful career in the biotechnology sector

Who We Are

Roche Diagnostics is a global leader in healthcare, dedicated to our purpose of Doing now what patients need next. At our Cape Town site, we play a pivotal role in this global mission, driving scientific innovation to create diagnostic solutions that improve health outcomes for all. Join a team that exemplifies a spirit of inclusivity, excellence, and collaboration.

Program Details

• Location: Cape Town, South Africa
• Duration: 12 Months

Who we are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100’000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let's build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.