Molecular Biology Internship at Novo Nordisk USA
Are you searching for a hands-on Molecular Biology Internship in the United States with a globally recognized pharmaceutical leader? This Research & Development Internship at Novo Nordisk Careers in Lexington, Massachusetts, offers an exceptional internship opportunity for life science graduates to gain real-world laboratory experience, work on cutting-edge biosensor research, and build a strong foundation for a career in molecular biology and drug discovery.
About the Company
Novo Nordisk is a global pharmaceutical company with over a century of innovation focused on chronic disease treatment. Through Novo Nordisk Careers, students and professionals join a mission-driven organization dedicated to advancing science, improving patient outcomes, and creating long-term global health impact.
Internship Details
- Internship Title: Internship – Molecular Biology
- Facility: Education
- Location: Lexington, MA, United States
- Program Dates:
- Start: June 1, 2026
- End: August 14, 2026
About the Department
Novo Nordisk’s Research & Development organization brings together leading experts across the full R&D continuum—from early research to late-stage clinical development. Teams based in Lexington, Watertown, Cambridge, and Plainsboro collaborate across multiple modalities and therapeutic areas to advance innovative science.
The R&D hub combines the speed and agility of biotechnology with the quality, resources, and stability of a global pharmaceutical company. Through collaboration, partnerships, and cutting-edge research, the organization is dedicated to improving human health and developing new medicines for patients.
The Molecular Biology Internship Program
Novo Nordisk’s internship program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on, full-time industry experience while working closely with experienced professionals. Over a 10-week program, interns contribute to meaningful project work that supports business objectives.
The program includes:
- Instructor-led training sessions
- A leadership engagement series
- A guided mentorship program for professional and personal development
Scope of the Position
The Molecular Biology Intern will gain practical experience supporting wet-lab Research & Development projects, with a focus on biosensor design and molecular biology workflows. The intern will develop hands-on technical skills and gain exposure to early drug discovery and laboratory research processes.
Key activities include:
- Designing biosensors and planning cloning strategies using plasmid DNA constructs
- Supporting plasmid cloning workflows, bacterial handling, and aseptic laboratory techniques
- Performing bacterial transformations, colony selection, and culture scale-up
- Preparing plasmid DNA for miniprep and maxiprep
- Conducting PCR, Sanger sequencing, and interpreting sequencing results
- Assembling DNA fragments using Gibson Assembly to create new plasmid constructs
- Maintaining sterile workflows and adhering to laboratory safety practices
The intern will also document and present their work, collaborate with multidisciplinary scientists, and gain exposure to cell biology, drug screening, molecular interactions, bioanalytical methods, peptide chemistry, and protein engineering.
Physical Requirements
0% overnight travel required
Qualifications For Molecular Biology Internship
- Current enrollment at an accredited college or university pursuing at least a bachelor’s degree
- In-progress undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline preferred
- Strong academic performance with a preferred cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Strong organizational, project management, and attention-to-detail skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams
- Demonstrated initiative, self-motivation, adaptability, and willingness to learn
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Visa & Eligibility Notice
At this time, Novo Nordisk is not hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future would require sponsorship for employment visa status.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base compensation range: $52,000 – $89,000 (hourly basis)
- Due to the temporary nature of the program, the position is not eligible for company benefit plans or paid time off unless required by applicable law.
