TDS Proteins CEAS Automation Co-Op

About the Role

The TDS Proteins Development Cell Engineering, Analytics & Screening (CEAS) organization is seeking a highly motivated Co-Op to support the development and expansion of laboratory automation capabilities for Large Molecule biotherapeutic development. In this role, the Co-Op will work at the intersection of software development, laboratory automation, and scientific research to support the transformation of existing automation scheduling platforms into modular and deployable systems. The position provides hands-on experience in Python development, full-stack automation software, device integration, robotics, and automated laboratory workflows while collaborating with scientific and engineering teams.

• 1 vacancy available.
• Co-op term: six months (typically January to June 2027, flexible).
• Full-time requirement (40 hours per week).
• Fully on-site.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with physical automation and software teams to transform existing scheduling platforms into modular, deployable systems adaptable to different laboratory workcell configurations.
• Characterize laboratory workcells, including device configurations, integration needs, and workflow requirements.
• Develop, configure, test, and validate software modules that enable integration between laboratory instruments and automation systems.
• Configure scheduling logic to support different instrument combinations and automated workflows.
• Test and verify end-to-end automated workflows to support reliable system performance.
• Support the architecture and development of modular automation software solutions.
• Apply Python programming skills to support software development, automation, system integration, and troubleshooting activities.
• Gain hands-on experience with full-stack automation software while contributing to additional laboratory automation opportunities.
• Analyze and interpret technical and experimental results using analytical and statistical approaches.
• Participate in technical discussions, experimental design, and problem-solving activities.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners and actively participate in project meetings.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation and project records in accordance with established guidelines.
• Provide additional software, automation, and project support as needed.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Completion of Undergraduate Freshman year at an accredited University is required.
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Biological Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related scientific or engineering disciplines.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Must not have any Summer Internship contract or other employment commitment that could interfere with the contract dates.
• Programming experience with Python is required.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn and work with software systems supporting laboratory automation and scientific workflows.
• Ability to balance multiple projects and priorities while delivering results.
• Ability to work independently as a self-starter while collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Must be permanently authorized to work in the U.S. and not require sponsorship for an employment visa.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with web development frameworks such as FastAPI, Flask, or similar frameworks.
• Knowledge of SQL and relational database concepts is a plus.
• Experience with version control systems such as Git and collaborative software development workflows.
• Experience developing, testing, debugging, or integrating software applications or modules.
• Interest or experience in full-stack software development.
• Familiarity with robotics, laboratory automation, or embedded/hardware-adjacent software.
• Interest or experience integrating software with laboratory instruments, robotic systems, or other physical devices.
• Experience or interest in automated scheduling, device integration, and laboratory workflow automation.
• Basic laboratory or scientific research experience.
• Experience with experimental design, execution, data analysis, or scientific research.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, technical problem-solving, and willingness to learn new software and automation technologies.
• Demonstrated leadership through academic projects, research activities, student organizations, or community involvement.