R&D Intern

Job description

Job Title:R&D Intern – Microbiology/Biochemistry/Chemistry

Organization: UMAHARI LLC (Pilot Manufacturing Facility)

Position Type: Part-time Internship (20–30 hours per week)

Location: Helix Center,1100 Corporate Square Dr, Saint Louis, MO

Reports To: Production/Lab Manager

Internship Summary  We are an innovative ag-biotech startup developing sustainable biofertilizer solutions using BSL-1 microorganisms, solid state fermentation , tissue culture, and precision formulation for commercial farming. Join our dynamic team to contribute to real-world impact in agricultural biotechnology.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in microbiology lab work: microbial culturing, bioassays, and metagenomics sample prep.

Support biochemistry experiments: protein extraction, enzyme assays, and formulation testing for biofertilizers.

Conduct chemistry analyses: pH/titration and raw material QC.

Document experiments in lab notebooks and contribute to SOP development.

Participate in team meetings, data analysis (Excel/Odoo), and facility setup tasks.

Qualifications & Requirements

Current enrollment in BS/MS program in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Botany , Life sciences or related field (UMSL/WashU/SLU students preferred).

Hands-on lab experience (coursework or prior research/internship).

Familiarity with aseptic technique, basic molecular biology, or analytical chemistry.

Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills.

Availability for 10-12 weeks; local candidates preferred (relocation not provided).

Schedule & Commitment

• Flexible 20–30 hours per week (primarily during standard business hours; schedule can accommodate academic commitments).
• Minimum commitment of one academic semester (or 3–6 months); extensions possible based on performance.

What We Offer

• Practical, industry-relevant experience in commercial biofertilizer manufacturing and quality systems.
• Direct exposure to cutting-edge microbial technologies used in real agricultural products.
• Mentorship from experienced scientists and production staff.
• Opportunity to contribute to environmentally friendly solutions that enhance soil health and crop productivity.
• Potential for letters of recommendation and future full-time opportunities.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining their interest in biofertilizers and sustainable agriculture to the UMAHARI HR team (sales@umahari.com)

Position details

Job title

R&D Intern – Microbiology/Biochemistry/Chemistry

Position type

Internship

Work-Study program

No

Location requirements

Location type

Onsite

Onsite location

St. Louis, Missouri, United States · 1100 Corporate Square Drive, Creve Coeur, Missouri 63132, United States

Time requirements

Schedule

Part time

Employment duration

Permanent

Compensation and benefits

Expected pay

15–20 USD per hour (depending on experience level)

Additional compensation

--

Benefits

--

Perks

--

Additional benefits

--

Categorize your job

Job role groups

Microbiologists

Candidate qualifications

Work authorization

This job requires US work authorization

This job is open to candidates with Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

This job is open to candidates with Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Skills

--

Degree level

Advanced CertificateBachelorsMastersTechnical DiplomaCommunity / Technical College

School year

--

Latest graduation date

--

Major groups

AgricultureBiologyBiochemistryMolecular Biology

Minimum GPA

--