What are the best places for a biochemistry/biotechnology internship?
I am a 9th grader that has been interested in this field for a very long time. I know that work experience is quite valued, but don't know where the best internships lie. At least, the best ones in my area. To give a bit more detail about what I'm interested in, I'd like to do something with genetics or forensics. I've already taken an intro to biotechnology class and am in the process of taking an intro to forensics class, so I'm not going in completely blind. Thanks for your help.
#biotechnology #biochemistry #internships
2 answers
Lillian’s Answer
In Northern California, there are companies such as Stryker, Amgen, Gilead, and other biotechnology/pharmaceutical companies that may take on interns. As Ian said though, I believe they only offer internships to students who are in college.
Since you are only in high school, I would look at internships/volunteering experience at local hospitals since I know those take on high school students sometimes. You can also ask to shadow someone who works at a biotech company just to see what their day to day life is like. However, I think your best bet would be to do an informational interview with someone in a biotechnology company if you would like to learn more about what they do, how they got there, and what kind of experience you need.
https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-ask-for-an-informational-interview-and-get-a-yes
Ian’s Answer
There are loads of pharmaceutical/medical device companies that will take on interns (usually not till they're in college though) in your area. Northern California happens to be one of the best places in the United States for biotechnology.