Research Chemistry Intern

About Oxford Nanopore Technologies

Our goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything, by anyone, anywhere. We have developed a new generation of nanopore‑based sensing technology that offers faster, information‑rich, accessible and affordable molecular analysis. The first application is DNA/RNA sequencing, and the technology is also being developed for the analysis of proteins and other types of molecules.

It is used to understand and characterise the biology of humans and diseases such as cancer, as well as plants, animals, bacteria, viruses and whole environments. With a thriving culture of ambition and strong innovation goals, Oxford Nanopore is a UK‑headquartered company with global operations and customers in more than 125 countries.

Location: Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Oxford, UK
Duration: 3 months, with potential for extension
Start Date: Summer 2026
Hours: Full‑time

As a Summer Research Scientist Intern you will work on cutting‑edge projects, such as optimising the production of DNA, RNA and protein analytes, characterising them and analysing their performance in sequencing. You will gain hands‑on experience in a range of analytical chemistry and molecular biology techniques and collaborate with world‑class scientists to push the boundaries of genomic research.

An intern position is available from the spring/summer of 2026 in our Research Chemistry team to suit dedicated undergraduate and postgraduate students studying biochemistry, chemistry, analytical chemistry or related fields, and who have a curiosity about pursuing a career in science.

You should be looking for an authentic and structured intern experience and be on course to achieve at least a 2.1 degree in your chosen subject.

We work across a wide range of subject areas including nanopore science, molecular biology and applications, characterisation or testing of core chemical components of our sequencing platforms, and commercialisation. All roles are hands‑on and laboratory‑based, designed to enhance your skills in key areas of chemistry. Opportunities cover various areas such as:

• Collaborating with a multi‑disciplinary team to support the development of analytical workflows for nucleic acids using techniques such as HPLC, UPLC and Mass Spec.
• Learning and applying scientific technical skills in one or more key aspects of Oxford Nanopore’s sequencing platform technology (biochemistry, materials and surface sciences).
• Working with modified oligonucleotide conjugates (including post‑synthesis modifications and conjugation).
• Assisting in the planning, running, testing and reporting of R&D trials and solving problems by evaluating information.
• Applying and developing analytical chemistry skills to assess and characterise novel nucleic acid‑based analytes, linking the results to those from nanopore sequencing.
• Manipulating and analysing data sets, ensuring accurate and relevant records, and presenting findings to the team and management.
• Using excellent verbal and written communication skills to summarise key findings.
• Managing time and resources to achieve tasks within deadlines to a high standard of quality.
• Demonstrating an intellectual curiosity to both challenge and learn.

Successful candidates will be available to accept a minimum 3‑month to maximum 12‑month placement, commencing from spring/summer 2026. All roles require full‑time hours for the duration of the placement, and interns must be present at our Oxford HQ on the Oxford Science Park.

• Essential: Willingness to learn under direction.
• Desirable: Self‑directed learning ability.

• Opportunity to work on impactful projects in genomic sequencing, contributing to technology that can transform healthcare and research.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and scientists.
• Access to cutting‑edge resources and tools, such as HPLC and Mass Spec instruments.
• Networking opportunities within the biotech and analytical chemistry communities.
• Competitive internship compensation.

Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and ability to perform the duties of the job.

If you’re interested in gaining work experience in a highly skilled team of friendly scientists while contributing to the development of platforms for DNA/RNA sequencing, we would love to hear from you!

We are based in beautiful, landscaped surroundings with tree‑lined walks, water features and a lake – a wonderful working environment.

If you are looking to utilise your skills to really make a difference to humankind, then consider joining our team and apply today!

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