Nanopore Protein Translocation Research Co-Op

Job Description to Hire a Co-Op Student

Graduate Co-Op – Nanopore Protein Translocation Research

Location: Cambridge, MA

Duration: 8 months

Department: Nanopore Science Team (NST)

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated graduate-level Co-Op student to support and help advance nanopore-based protein translocation research in an industry R&D setting. The student will work closely with senior scientists and engineers on experimental development using advanced nanopore platforms and will be expected to take increasing ownership of experimental execution and problem-solving.

This role is ideal for MS or PhD students interested in biophysics, bioengineering, chemistry, physics, or related quantitative life sciences, who want deep, hands-on experience at the intersection of experimentation, data quality, and platform development.

Responsibilities

• Execute nanopore protein translocation experiments with increasing independence, including:




• Lipid bilayer formation and nanopore insertion


• Buffer, denaturant, and reagent preparation


• Running translocation experiments and electrical measurements (e.g., IV curves)




• Perform experimental replicates and contribute to troubleshooting and protocol optimization


• Maintain high-quality experimental documentation, metadata, and data organization


• Assist with data quality assessment, basic statistical analysis, and visualization


• Participate in technical discussions, data reviews, and experimental planning

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an MS or PhD program in Biology, Bioengineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field


• Demonstrated laboratory research experience


• Strong experimental rigor and attention to detail


• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team


• Interest in single-molecule measurements, biophysical instrumentation, or analytical platforms

Nice to Have

• Experience with biophysical or single-molecule techniques


• Familiarity with electrical measurements, signal processing, or electrophysiology


• Experience working with proteins, membranes, or lipid bilayers


• Programming or data analysis experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R)


• Prior experience troubleshooting complex experimental systems

What You Will Gain

• Advanced hands-on experience with nanopore-based single-molecule protein measurements


• Exposure to experimental design, reproducibility, and platform-scale data standards


• Close mentorship from experienced industry scientists


• Opportunities to contribute meaningfully to development decisions and future research directions

The pay range for this role is $25 - $40 per hour. This role is a short-term engagement that is not eligible for health and welfare benefits. Retirement benefits may be available after completing a set number of hours. Compensation and benefits information is based on Flagship Pioneering's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.