Roche Next-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 Position
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) & Molecular Biology Graduate Internship Program 🧬
Ready to turn your academic passion for genomics into real-world impact?
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.
What You'll Do
As an NGS & Molecular Biology Intern, you will be an active member of our R&D team, contributing directly to our day-to-day activities. As part of your responsibilities, you will:
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 LightCycler 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.
Who You Are
We're looking for recent graduates who bring a strong academic foundation and a genuine enthusiasm for biotechnology.
Required Qualifications:
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.
Highly Desirable Experience:
Practical experience with NGS library preparation protocols.
Hands-on use of QC instruments (e.g., Bioanalyzer, TapeStation).
Experience in enzyme engineering or protein expression and purification.
Key Skills:
Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities.
Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
What You'll Gain
This program is designed to be a powerful launchpad for your career in biotechnology. You will receive:
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.
Who We Are
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 innovation to create diagnostic solutions that improve health outcomes for all. Join a team that exemplifies a spirit of inclusivity, excellence, and collaboration.
Program Details
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Duration: 12 Months
Ready to sequence the future with us?
Apply now by submitting your CV, academic transcript, and a brief cover letter highlighting your molecular biology experience.
Who we are
A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100’000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.
Let’s build a healthier future, together.
Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.