SPARC Associate Biologist Intern - MPS

Ready to launch your biotech career and shape the future of science and global health? A leading nonprofit biological resources and standards organization, ATCC offers exciting opportunities for students at the Universities at Shady Grove. SPARC Internships are based on emerging R&D projects.

SPARC (Student Partnership and Research Collaboration Program) is an exclusive partnership between ATCC and the Universities at Shady Grove and its partner institutions. This program provides students with flexible, paid, part-time career opportunities throughout the academic year at our Gaithersburg, MD facility from 9/2/25 through 5/23/26. Join ATCC and be part of a team that supports the global scientific community with trusted, authenticated biological materials.

Microphysiological Systems (MPS) SPARC Project

Support additional drug screenings on HCMI portfolio (new tissue derivation; ex.: lung).

This project involves learning embedded and suspension 3D cell culture, fundamentals of assay/project design, and interpreting results for possible external use.

Aseptic technique
• 3D cell culture
• Cell viability assays
• Documentation

• Lab Duties: Perform a variety of experiments for the development of ATCC products and generate application data by following standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and other controlled documents. Maintain laboratory safety, operations, equipment, and supplies.
• Documentation: Maintain production batch records in compliance with good laboratory practices. Collect, analyze, and report data, ensuring meticulous documentation.
• Continuous Learning and Problem-Solving: Master aseptic technique, gain experience with various cell lines and organisms, and tackle routine challenges in alignment with organizational policies.

• Currently pursuing life science focused bachelor's degree at the Universities at Shady Grove
• Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a desire to learn are required
• Hands on laboratory experience and good aseptic technique highly preferred
• Ability to adhere to corporate policies and procedures

• Analytical and self-motivated, with an interest in microbial genomics and data science

• Comfortable with coding and large datasets

The expected compensation for this role is $28.00 per hour.

We Invest in You

• Health & Wellness:
  • Comprehensive medical coverage and company paid Life Insurance, Disability Insurance & AD&D
  • Work life balance with Paid Holidays and PTO
  • Fitness and cell phone subsidies, and additional benefits such as Aflac, legal services, and pet insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program offering around-the-clock counseling
• Financial security:
  • 401(a) (6% employer contribution) and 403(b) (2% match) retirement plans
  • Exceptional career advancement opportunities, recognition, and rewards
  • Corporate bonus program
• Mission Focused:
  • Non-profit organization supporting critical life science research
  • We give scientists the tools they need to make discoveries that improve and save lives
  • Contribute to community involvement and social responsibility

Join ATCC, where we fuel your success, well-being, and development. We're a mission-focused non-profit Equal Opportunity Employer, celebrating a century of supporting global public health. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Shape the future of science with us.