Research Intern - Women in STEM Internship Program

This Women in STEM (WiSTEM) Internship at DeNova offers students a valuable co-op opportunity to gain hands-on experience in biotechnology research and development. As a Research Intern, you will be part of DeNova’s R&D team, supporting scientific and engineering projects that contribute to our mission of developing more sustainable approaches to food production. You’ll gain exposure to continuous fermentation and downstream bioprocessing, learn directly from highly skilled scientists and engineers, and take part in research that addresses global challenges in food security.

Core Responsibilities:

• Support daily R&D operations: Complete basic microbiology training, practice aseptic techniques, support media preparation, and help maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Assist with fermentation and bioprocessing research: Support lab and pilot research activities, including basic bioreactor operations and process sampling.
• Contribute to an independent research project: Design and execute a research project aligned with DeNova’s R&D priorities.
• Analyze and communicate findings: Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data, prepare progress updates, and present project outcomes in written and oral formats.
• Collaborate with the team: Participate in team meetings and events, work collaboratively with experienced scientists and engineers, and receive a one-on-one mentorship session with DeNova’s Founder and CEO.

Benefits:

• Build practical experience in industrial fermentation and biomanufacturing, fast-growing fields shaping the future of sustainable production.
• Work hands-on with lab and pilot-scale equipment in a real biomanufacturing environment.
• Build technical, research, and analytical skills through active participation in research activities, data interpretation, and problem solving.
• Receive mentorship from scientists and engineers, and gain insight into diverse career paths in R&D and biomanufacturing.
• Execute your own research project and contribute to solutions in sustainable food systems.
• Grow your professional network within Nova Scotia’s biotech and biomanufacturing sector.
• Join a collaborative, mission-driven team where interns are trusted with meaningful work and well supported throughout their internship.

About DeNova:

DeNova is a Dartmouth-based biotechnology company developing sustainable microbial protein ingredients through industrial fermentation. Its flagship product, Psomi™, is designed to provide a scalable alternative to conventional protein ingredients, supporting more responsible and resilient food systems. The company is at an exciting phase of growth as it works to translate foundational R&D into first commercial production and market entry, while establishing the pathway to future industrial scale-up.

Qualifications:

You might be a great fit for this opportunity if you:

• are completing or have completed at least one year of post-secondary education in science, engineering, or a related field
• have an enthusiasm for sustainable innovation and a keen interest in biotechnology, fermentation, or industrial biomanufacturing
• have hands-on experience in an academic or industry lab setting
• bring strong communication, organization, and time management skills
• are curious, collaborative, and solution-oriented
• are comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-based environment
• approach your work professionally, respectfully, and with a strong commitment to safety

Note: This internship is designed to expand opportunities for women to gain meaningful exposure to biotechnology and biomanufacturing, where they continue to be underrepresented. The position is therefore open only to applicants who identify as women.