2026 Summer Intern - Cellular and Tissue Genomics, Oncology

Department Summary

The Department of Cellular & Tissue Genomics (CTG) Oncology develops and applies high-resolution -omics technologies to pursue ambitious research questions in oncology. By leveraging advanced experimental and computational tools, we investigate the molecular mechanisms underpinning cancer initiation, progression, and drug resistance. Our mission is to translate these biological insights into the identification of novel drug targets for patients in need.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented intern to join the CTG-Oncology breast team. In this position, you will work alongside a lead scientist to investigate the epigenetic and transcriptional regulatory networks that drive tumor evolution and therapy resistance in ER+ breast cancer.

This internship position is located in South San Francisco, on-site.

The Opportunity

As a key contributor to this project, you will have the opportunity to:

• Drive Discovery: Conduct studies to map the molecular architecture of breast cancer models. You will leverage insights from clinical trial data and large-scale public datasets to identify transcriptional and epigenetic programs associated with drug sensitivity and evaluate in vitro models.

• Innovate In Vitro: Utilize and characterize advanced cell culture models-including lentiviral, PiggyBac, or CRISPR-engineered lines-to validate high-priority targets identified through genomic and chemical screening.

• Mechanistic Validation: Investigate the molecular hypotheses surrounding how specific genomic landscapes influence tumor response to emerging therapies.

• Translational Bioinformatics: Assist in the integrative analysis of multi-omic datasets (RNA, ATAC-seq, protein) to identify predictive biomarkers and gene signatures.

• Scientific Communication: Synthesize, analyze, and interpret complex data to generate actionable insights and provide regular updates at team meetings. Formally present work to the broader CTG department at the end of the internship period.

Program Highlights

• Intensive 12-weeks, full time (40 hours per week) paid internship.

• Program start dates are in May/June 2026.

• A stipend, based on location, will be provided to help alleviate costs associated with the internship.

• Ownership of challenging and impactful projects.

• Work with some of the most talented people in the biotechnology industry.

• Final presentations of project work to the department and collaborators.

• Opportunity to lead or participate in intern committees to design and coordinate program events and initiatives.

• Professional & personal development curriculum throughout the program, including networking opportunities, workshops, and panel discussions.

• Participate in volunteer projects, social events, and team-building activities.

Who You Are

Required Education

You meet one of the following criteria:

• Must be pursuing a PhD (Preferably PhD students in their last year of study).

Required Majors: Computational Biology, Cancer Biology, Systems Biology, Genetics, Genomics.

Required skills

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

• Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture techniques.

• Proficient in cell and molecular biology lab techniques.

• Basic bioinformatics skills (e.g., R or Python) for analyzing omics datasets.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

• Detail-oriented and self-directed individuals with a strong interest in cancer biology and targeted therapy resistance.

• Familiarity with cell viability assays and pharmacological dose-response studies.

• Experience in advanced cell culture techniques such as RNAi, cell line engineering using CRISPR/Cas9, Lentivirus or PiggyBac transposase systems.

• Prior experience integrating multi-omics datasets (e.g., combining gene expression and epigenomics data) or working with large single-cell atlases.

Along with the submission of your CV, a cover letter is optional.

Relocation benefits are not available for this job posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location for this position of California is $50.00 per hour. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This position also qualifies for paid holiday time off benefits.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.