2026 Summer Intern - M-DDU (Metabolism Drug Discovery Unit)

2026 Summer Intern - M-DDU (Metabolism Drug Discovery Unit)

Department Summary

The Metabolism Drug Discovery Unit (M-DDU) at Genentech is seeking an intern in the in vitro pharmacology team. The M-DDU is a group of chemists, structural biologists and pharmacologists within the gRED research organization, and it seeks to develop the next generation of diabetes and obesity treatments as a critical part of the Roche wide strategic effort to build a competitive CVRM (cardiovascular renal and metabolism) pipeline. In the in vitro pharmacology team, we work across multiple disciplines and stages of drug discovery and characterization. We establish in vitro assays to screen and triage compounds for multiple new lead identification programs, we support basic biology and pharmacology discovery efforts by interrogating mechanisms of action including GPCR biology and physiology, we support further characterization of drug candidates in development, and we contribute to publication efforts.

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

The Opportunity

• Work collaboratively within multidisciplinary project teams to identify novel receptor modulators for the treatment of metabolic disorders.

• Design, conduct, and interpret complex preclinical experimental studies for the validation and characterization of targets or therapeutic agents in the area of metabolism.

• Generate new cell lines and assays to support discovery pipelines.

Program Highlights

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

• Program start dates are in May/June (Summer).

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

• Ownership of challenging and impactful business-critical projects.

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

Who You Are

Required Education: Must be pursuing a PhD (enrolled student).

Required Majors: Life Sciences (pharmacology, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field).

Required Skills:

• Proven proficiency in molecular and cellular biology techniques, particularly mammalian cell culture.

• Excellent data management and record-keeping skills.

• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work both independently and with a multidisciplinary team.

• A vigorous "can do" mentality to succeed in a dynamic and highly collaborative research team.

• Willingness to learn new skills and rapidly adapt to changing priorities for multiple projects.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications:

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

• Complements our culture and the standards that guide our daily behavior & decisions: Integrity, Courage, and Passion.

• Experience using liquid handling instruments and microplate formats.

Relocation benefits are not available for this job posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $46.00 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.