Student Internship in Analytical Development for Peptide Characterization with LC-MS (Basel, 9-12 months) — Roche

Full description

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 Position Join the Synthetic Molecule Analytical Development department (PTDC-A) within Global Technical Development (PTD), where we are crucial in ensuring the safety and efficacy of synthetic molecule development products. Our specialized Hyphenated & Special Technologies (HST) team, a group of over 20 mass spectrometry experts, provides critical scientific support. We leverage cutting-edge Mass Spectrometry (MS), separation sciences, and innovative special technologies to verify drug safety and quality through identity testing, characterization, and precise quantification of all types of impurities.

The opportunity This internship offers more than standard lab work; you will directly contribute to the safety and efficacy of next-generation medicines. As an intern you will:

• Join our collaborative team of 20+ experts to develop a modern LC-MS/MS method for determining the enantiomeric purity (D/L ratio) of amino acids in synthetic peptides, while receiving mentorship from seasoned Roche scientists.
• Be involved in sample preparations including peptide hydrolysis followed by precise LC-MS/MS measurements, while gaining valuable working experience in an international pharmaceutical company.
• Gain hands-on expertise in state-of-the-art LC-MS techniques and sample preparation knowledge that you can’t get in a classroom.
• Have the opportunity to work closely together with our team members, alongside your main project
• Gather working experience in a leading global pharmaceutical company, bridge the gap between academia and industry and learn how analytical method development impacts drug efficacy and patient safety within the broader drug development lifecycle.

Who you are

You are a highly motivated recent Master’s graduate, or a student nearing the completion of your Master’s studies, with an academic background in analytical chemistry or a related scientific field (e.g. Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Food Chemistry), eager to gain your first professional experience in the pharmaceutical industry. In addition, you have:

• Solid theoretical foundation and practical experience with analytical instrumentation, chromatographic separation techniques, and sample preparation.
• a curious, proactive, and hands-on mindset, with the ability to quickly learn new analytical concepts and procedures.
• business proficiency in English (knowledge of German is considered a plus).
• You enjoy handling, processing, and interpreting complex analytical mass spectrometry data.
• You demonstrate problem-solving skills, capable of managing tasks independently while remaining a committed team player who communicates effectively within a group.

The following skills are an advantage

• Prior practical experience with LC-MS analytics
• Solid structural understanding of peptides and amino acids, as well as familiarity with derivatization techniques or acid hydrolysis
• Adapting quickly to changing project needs and maintaining focus and accuracy even when managing parallel tasks in routine operations

If you have a passion for analytical chemistry, enjoy laboratory research, and are looking to connect academic theory with real-world pharmaceutical challenges, we encourage you to apply.

Application process

• Start date: upon agreement with the line manager
• You can apply with a current CV and a motivation letter.
• EU/EFTA/Swiss Citizens: Please provide proof of current enrollment, or proof of a Master’s degree obtained within the last 12 months.
• Non-EU/EFTA Citizens