Generation Sequencing; NGS Molecular Biology Graduate Internship

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 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.

• 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 Light Cycler 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

We're looking for recent graduates who bring a strong academic foundation and a genuine enthusiasm for biotechnology.

• 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

• Practical experience with NGS library preparation protocols
• Hands-on use of QC instruments (e.g., Bioanalyzer, Tape Station)
• Experience in enzyme engineering or protein expression and purification

• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset

• 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

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…