Bioinformatics Intern

Genvax Technologies is a startup animal health company focused on developing self-amplifying mRNA nanoparticle vaccines. Genvax Technologies seeks a Summer 2026 Bioinformatics Intern at our Ames, IA location. Your project will include assisting in the development and validation of vaccine technologies to improve animal health. You will work closely with a mentor to develop and execute an independent project. This is a unique opportunity to work in the early stages of a startup company. This is a paid internship that runs from May 25th to August 14th (dates flexible).

Essential Job Functions:

• Help design and develop internal and external facing web applications
• Build bioinformatic tools for sequence analysis and improved vaccine design
• Prototype and improve machine learning algorithms
• Deliver an independent project and present results to the Genvax team
• Follow SOPs and documentation standards in a regulated environment; maintain detailed project notes and version-controlled code.
• Contribute to continuous improvement across tools and processes for internal users
• Perform other duties as assigned in a dynamic startup setting
• Reports to the VP of Research and Development
• Hours are Monday through Friday with a minimum of 30 hours per week and a maximum of 40 hours per week

• Pursuit of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computer Science/Engineering, or related field
• Preference will be given to students attending an Iowa college or university, or students that have graduated from an Iowa high school and attend a college or university outside of Iowa
• Preference will be given to students within 1-2 years of graduation
• Bioinformatics, coding, or software development experience is preferred
• Experience with machine learning, artificial intelligence, or predictive analytics is a plus
• Strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skill sets quickly
• Experience managing independent projects

• Paid Internship. $16-$17 per hour. 
• We are willing to work with your department if you need this internship to count for credit, depending on the requirements