Life Science Internship 2026 at Catalent | R&D Internship in USA – Apply Now
Looking for a Life Science Internship that gives you real-world research experience in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation? The Catalent Summer 2026 R&D Internship offers aspiring scientists an exciting opportunity to work alongside industry leaders, gaining hands-on lab experience in biologics development, molecular biology, and process optimization. This internship is designed for life science students eager to build a meaningful career through impactful research and global collaboration.
About Catalent:ย
Catalent is a global leader in drug development, biologics manufacturing, and pharmaceutical delivery solutions. With operations across multiple continents, Catalent partners with major pharma and biotech firms to deliver innovative treatments that improve patient health worldwide. The companyโs commitment to innovation, sustainability, and talent development makes it a top choice for life science internships and career growth in biotechnology and R&D.
Internship Details:
- Internship Title: Summer 2026: Intern – Research & Development
- Location: Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America, 53717
- Intern ID: 0091117
Who Can Apply for this Life Science Internship?
In order to be eligible for the Research & Development internship at Catalent, you must meet the following requirements:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university
- Must be an undergraduate/graduate student majoring in Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field of study
- Eligible to legally work in the United States
- Ability to work full-time (40 hours/week) for a 10-12-week period over the summer
- An individual may be required to sit, stand, walk regularly, and occasionally lift 0-15 pounds.
Roles and Responsibilities
The Research & Development department focuses on the design, characterization, and optimization of biologic molecules and platforms to support preclinical and clinical development. The team works across multiple modalities including monoclonal antibodies, multispecifics, and complex biologics.
In this internship for life science students, you will support lab-based research including sterile mammalian cell culture, cell counting, metabolite screening, transfection, media preparation, and analytical techniques such as ddPCR and SDS-PAGE. Youโll work cross-functionally with Cell Line Development, Molecular Biology, and Process Development teams to advance processes and capabilities that improve cell lines and accelerate development timelines. This role offers exposure to experimental design, data analysis, and scientific documentation, providing a strong foundation in early-stage biologics development.
Additional responsibilities include:
- Assist in the design and execution of experiments related to molecular cloning, cell culture, and protein expression
- Prepare buffers, media, and reagents for experimental workflows
- Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records in accordance with GLP standards
- Participate in cross-functional team meetings to discuss project strategy, timelines, and progress.
- Communicate with Process Development to ensure that cell lines are developed with scalability and manufacturability in mind.
- Review scientific literature to support project design and troubleshoot experimental challenges.
- Help prepare technical documentation, such as protocols and reports
- Maintains batch production records and complete all laboratory documentation in clear, accurate language according to SOP
- General lab cleaning and lab support
- Self-motivated and creative mindset with a strong desire to learn and solve complex problems.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data and troubleshoot experiments.
- Excellent time management skills with strong attention to detail to balance multiple projects.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, fast-paced team.
The Catalent Internship Experience includes:
- Opportunity to make an impact in the lives of patients all over the world!
- Experience through hands-on projects that support superior drug development and delivery technologies compared to anyone else.
- Exposure to top-tier scientists and industry leaders.
- Commitment from dedicated managers and mentors who are advocates for your success and career development.
- Access to collaborative and highly engaged colleagues across the globe, excited to share their knowledge and provide you with support.
