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

F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG; Kuilsrivier; Presencial; ZAR 89.000 - 134.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

Roche Diagnostics in Cape Town is offering a 12-month internship for graduates passionate about genomics, to gain hands-on experience in NGS and molecular biology.

You will perform library prep, enzyme biotechnology, PCR/qPCR, QC, and documentation, under mentorship from senior scientists; this program builds practical skills across the full product development lifecycle.

Formación

• Honours Degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Biochemistry, or closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with general molecular biology techniques from academic or research labs.
• Experience with NGS library preparation protocols is highly desirable.

Responsabilidades

• Execute NGS library preparation for whole-genome sequencing, RNA-Seq, and target enrichment.
• Participate in enzyme engineering projects from design to expression and purification.
• Master core molecular biology techniques: PCR/qPCR, DNA/RNA extraction and quantification, gel electrophoresis.
• Apply QC methods using instruments like Bioanalyzer, TapeStation, and Qubit.
• Maintain detailed documentation and prepare clear reports to support project goals.
• Support laboratory operations, reagent prep, inventory, and safety procedures.

Conocimientos

Excellent communication skills

Strong analytical abilities

Excellent organizational skills

Educación

Honours Degree in Molecular Biology or related field

Herramientas

Bioanalyzer

TapeStation

Qubit

Descripción del empleo

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’re Looking For

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

This program is designed to be a powerful launchpad for your career in biotechnology. You will receive:

• 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

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe it’s urgent to deliver medical solutions right now – even as we develop innovations for the future. We are passionate about transforming patients’ lives. We are courageous in both decision and action. And we believe that good business means a better world. That is why we come to work each day. We commit ourselves to scientific rigor, unassailable ethics, and access to medical innovations for all. We do this today to build a better tomorrow. We are proud of who we are, what we do, and how we do it. We are many, working as one across functions, across companies, and across the world. We are Roche.