R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection)
UF Innovate | Accelerate
Job Description
Position Title: R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection)
Department: Research & Development
Status: ☐ Exempt: Full Time & Consultants ☒ Nonexempt: Part Time
Location: The Hub, 747 SW 2nd Ave. Gainesville, Florida 32601
How to Apply: Please send an email entitled “R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection)” with a resume attached to humancapital@identifysensors.com. Please mention how you learned of the job posting and why you think you would be a good fit for the opportunity.
About the Company
IdentifySensors Biologics is a leading innovator in nanotechnology and biotechnology, focused on commercializing a digital diagnostic platform called Check4. Our mission is to make a significant contribution to the diagnostic industry by offering an entirely new method of molecular detection that eliminates the need for amplification—opting instead for direct digital detection of specific gene sequences. We value curiosity, hands-on learning, and a collaborative spirit in our growing team. We pride ourselves on being scrappy and doing what it takes to get the job done.
Position Summary
The R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection) will support the Research & Development team in functionalizing graphene-based sensors with ssDNA oligonucleotides and assessing biosensor performance for nucleic acid detection. The intern will work extensively with contrived and clinical samples of saliva and blood to evaluate sensitivity, specificity, and overall biosensor performance. This is a unique opportunity for a Master’s student in Biosensor, Nanoengineering, Electrochemistry, or Molecular Biology to gain hands-on experience at the forefront of cutting-edge biosensing technologies, with a focus on real-world commercial applications.
Core Job Responsibilities
1. Sensor Functionalization & Testing
Education:
High-performing interns will gain invaluable experience in advanced biosensor development, potentially opening doors to future roles in R&D, Quality Assurance, or broader commercial applications within IdentifySensors Biologics. Post-internship opportunities may include positions as R&D Associates, Quality Control Specialists, or further specialization in nanotechnology-based diagnostics.
The R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection) position is located on-site in Gainesville, Florida at the Innovation Hub located at 747 SW 2nd Ave. You will work in a hands-on laboratory setting, collaborating with a diverse team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of nanotechnology for diagnostic applications. If you’re passionate about cutting-edge biosensing solutions and eager to contribute to the commercialization of next-generation diagnostic platforms, we encourage you to apply by sending your resume to humancapital@identifysensors.com.
Department: Research & Development
Status: ☐ Exempt: Full Time & Consultants ☒ Nonexempt: Part Time
Location: The Hub, 747 SW 2nd Ave. Gainesville, Florida 32601
How to Apply: Please send an email entitled “R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection)” with a resume attached to humancapital@identifysensors.com. Please mention how you learned of the job posting and why you think you would be a good fit for the opportunity.
About the Company
IdentifySensors Biologics is a leading innovator in nanotechnology and biotechnology, focused on commercializing a digital diagnostic platform called Check4. Our mission is to make a significant contribution to the diagnostic industry by offering an entirely new method of molecular detection that eliminates the need for amplification—opting instead for direct digital detection of specific gene sequences. We value curiosity, hands-on learning, and a collaborative spirit in our growing team. We pride ourselves on being scrappy and doing what it takes to get the job done.
Position Summary
The R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection) will support the Research & Development team in functionalizing graphene-based sensors with ssDNA oligonucleotides and assessing biosensor performance for nucleic acid detection. The intern will work extensively with contrived and clinical samples of saliva and blood to evaluate sensitivity, specificity, and overall biosensor performance. This is a unique opportunity for a Master’s student in Biosensor, Nanoengineering, Electrochemistry, or Molecular Biology to gain hands-on experience at the forefront of cutting-edge biosensing technologies, with a focus on real-world commercial applications.
Core Job Responsibilities
1. Sensor Functionalization & Testing
- Functionalize graphene-based sensors with ssDNA oligonucleotides following standardized procedures.
- Follow established protocols for performance testing using contrived and clinical samples (saliva, blood).
- Conduct quality control assessments to ensure sensor integrity, stability and reliability.
- Systematically collect, organize, and document testing data with detailed records of methodologies and results.
- Evaluate biosensor performance metrics (sensitivity, specificity, limit of detection) and prepare standardized reports.
- Present findings in clear, concise technical reports and presentations to the R&D team.
- Adhere to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and all relevant safety regulations while conducting experiments.
- Perform routine quality control tests to maintain and validate the biosensor platform’s performance standards.
- Manage and track laboratory inventory including oligonucleotides, reagents and consumables to ensure seamless lab operations.
- Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, instrument calibrations, and material usage to support reproducibility and compliance.
- Work closely with the R&D team to refine sensor functionalization and testing approaches.
- Interact with cross-functional teams (Quality, Regulatory, Supply Chain) to align testing methodologies and timelines.
Education:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in Biosensor, Nanoengineering, Electrochemistry, Molecular Biology or related field at the University of Florida.
- Technical Interest: Demonstrated passion for biosensing applications, nucleic acid detection, or related nanotechnologies.
- Laboratory Experience: Familiarity with functionalizing sensor surfaces, molecular biology techniques, and sample preparation (saliva, blood).
- Analytical Abilities: Competence in data collection, interpretation, and standardized reporting.
- Organizational Skills: Very high attention to detail in experimental protocols, record-keeping, and inventory management.
- Teamwork & Communication: Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Previous research experience or internship in biosensor development, electrochemical testing, or molecular diagnostics.
- Experience working with graphene-based materials or similar nanostructures.
- Familiarity with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or statistical tools) for performance evaluation.
High-performing interns will gain invaluable experience in advanced biosensor development, potentially opening doors to future roles in R&D, Quality Assurance, or broader commercial applications within IdentifySensors Biologics. Post-internship opportunities may include positions as R&D Associates, Quality Control Specialists, or further specialization in nanotechnology-based diagnostics.
The R&D Intern – Biosensor Development (Nucleic Acid Detection) position is located on-site in Gainesville, Florida at the Innovation Hub located at 747 SW 2nd Ave. You will work in a hands-on laboratory setting, collaborating with a diverse team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of nanotechnology for diagnostic applications. If you’re passionate about cutting-edge biosensing solutions and eager to contribute to the commercialization of next-generation diagnostic platforms, we encourage you to apply by sending your resume to humancapital@identifysensors.com.
