2026 Biologics Drug Product Development Intern (PhD)

Internship Opportunity At AbbVie

Envision spending your summer working with energetic colleagues and inspirational leaders, all while gaining world-class experience in one of the most dynamic organizations in the pharmaceutical industry. This is a reality for AbbVie Interns.

The Biologics Drug Product Development department is within the AbbVie Bay Area (ABA) Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) Biologics department in South San Francisco, CA. This group is responsible for formulation and drug product process development that are required for developing stable and fit-for-purpose biologic drug products. This graduate level internship will focus on understanding and improving the colloidal stability of high concentration drug products by exploring liquid-liquid phase separation behavior and the role of excipients in maintaining stability.

Key responsibilities include:

• Design and execute experiments to understand liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) behavior and evaluate the impact of various excipients on colloidal stability in biologics formulations.
• Prepare and characterize biologic drug product formulations using various assays (visual appearance, subvisible particles, protein content, SEC-HPLC, and others).
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to understand the mechanisms of phase separation and stabilization.
• Document experimental design, execution, and results in electronic lab notebook.
• Develop recommendations for formulation composition and process changes to mitigate LLPS.
• Share findings in technical presentation and technical report.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in university, pursuing a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or other related field
• Must be enrolled in university for at least one semester following the internship
• Previous experience with laboratory work, preferably in a research setting

Preferred Qualifications

• Expected graduation date between December 2026 July 2027
• Exposure to protein characterization techniques
• Research experience related to colloid science
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Effective written and oral communication skills

Benefits and Amenities:

• Competitive pay
• Relocation support for eligible students
• Select wellness benefits and paid holiday / sick time

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.