AbCellera is breaking the barriers of conventional drug development to propel antibody-based medicines from target to clinic. We are a team of scientists, engineers, creatives, and business professionals who believe that advancing science enhances lives. We have developed technologies to unlock high-value drug targets, including antibody-drug conjugates and T-cell engagers for cancer, and complex transmembrane proteins for indications such as metabolic and endocrine conditions, pain, and autoimmunity.

We are looking for a motivated and talented individual currently pursuing a BSc or MSc in Biological Sciences or other relevant field to join our Cell Line Development team as a co-op or intern for an 8 month term, starting in May 2025. You will learn about the world of mammalian cell lines and how we leverage them to express therapeutic antibodies. This will involve the understanding, development, and application of both foundational molecular biology and cell culture techniques within an industry setting. The focus of this project will be to generate, screen, and characterize cell lines producing difficult to express antibodies. Your role will contribute to the continued development of an industry leading cell line development platform. 

While in this on-site position, based in beautiful Vancouver, you will receive guidance and support from experienced team members within the Cell Line Development team. The internship is designed to offer exposure to real-world projects and the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of antibody-based medicines from target to clinic within Canada.

How you might spend your days

• Working in a highly collaborative and supportive team
• Contributing to the generation of mammalian (CHO) stable cell lines to produce antibodies including DNA construction and cell culture
• Learning, developing, and applying fundamental mammalian cell culture techniques
• Developing basic molecular biology techniques including, and not limited to, restriction digest cloning, gel electrophoresis, PCR, and DNA purification from E.coli
• Developing new molecular biology methods to genetically characterize recombinant cell lines
• Evaluating the data you generate and investigate the relationship between genetic characteristics of cell lines and the product quality of the antibodies that they produce
• Adhering to safety and quality standards in all laboratory activities

We'd love to hear from you if

• You are enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field 
• You have an interest in and knowledge of molecular biology and cell culture techniques (including but not limited to gel electrophoresis, PCR, primer design and mammalian cell culture)
• You have acquired foundational laboratory skills such as pipetting and aseptic cell culture technique
• You are eager to explore industry and get hands-on experience in the production of biologic therapeutics
• You have a passion for science, operational excellence, and innovation
• You have strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• You have excellent written and verbal communication skills
• You have the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment
• You pay attention to detail and are able to maintain accurate experimental records

What we offer

AbCellera’s hiring range for this role is CAD $3,300 - $3,700 per month, commensurate with your education and job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to base pay, we offer a number of ways to support AbCellerites in maximizing their work-life synergy. You will have a vacation allowance as well as additional days off as part of our company-wide office closures (a real value to all!), and sick leave time while on your internship. Scientific and technical mentorship is a priority. And you’ll find we prioritize teams and social groups to build community and connections across AbCellera.

About AbCellera

AbCellera is a global company that discovers and develops antibody-based medicines that help people live longer, happier, and more productive lives. We are focused on bringing innovative medicines to patients, both by advancing our internal pipeline of programs and partnering with companies that have novel science or innovative technology.

And it all starts with our team. We’ve built a place where people feel they are part of something bigger than themselves. A place that exists to push the limits of science and technology, and aims to bring better therapies to patients.

We look for people with drive and energy. Idealists. People we love and people we trust. This may be unconventional, but it is the key to our success. 

To apply

Please submit your application through our website and refer to Job ID 23264 in your cover letter. We apologize in advance, but we receive a large volume of applications and are only able to contact those who are selected for an interview. 

Application deadline: December 6, 2024

Start date: May 1, 2025

Duration: 8 months

Location: Vancouver, BC

Workplace arrangement: On-site