Internship in AI for Laboratory Automation (Pharma Research)

About the role

Roche's Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED) group, within the Translational Drug Metabolism, Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics department, is expanding its laboratory automation and digitalisation capabilities. This full-time internship explores how large language models (LLMs) can automate laboratory workflows in pharmaceutical research by connecting LLMs with laboratory equipment and software so users can interact with lab systems through natural language.

Key responsibilities

• Research and compare existing tools and frameworks for connecting LLMs with external software and laboratory equipment.
• Develop a proof of concept that connects an LLM to a laboratory liquid handling system through suitable software interfaces.
• Explore how natural language instructions can be turned into executable laboratory workflows.
• Design and run tests to evaluate the reliability, accuracy and limitations of the approach.
• Collaborate with laboratory scientists and automation experts to understand existing workflows and find suitable applications.
• Document the implementation, summarise findings and give recommendations for further development.

Required profile

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Bioinformatics or a related field, or enrolment in a relevant Master's or PhD programme.
• Strong interest in LLMs, AI agents and their integration with external tools.
• Interest in laboratory automation and robotics; previous experience with lab instruments or automation software is an advantage.
• Good command of spoken and written English.
• PhD students must remain enrolled during the internship; non-EU/EFTA nationals must provide a university statement confirming the internship is mandatory for their studies.

Required skills

• Strong Python programming and software development experience.
• Familiarity with APIs, software integration and version control systems such as Git.

The internship is based at the Roche Pharma Research Center in Basel, lasts 6 months and starts upon availability, with possible extension. Candidates apply online with their CV and degree or enrolment certificate, including a short section on relevant skills and examples.