Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq:  ARWR) is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company that develops medicines that treat intractable diseases by silencing the genes that cause them. Using a broad portfolio of RNA chemistries and efficient modes of delivery, Arrowhead therapies trigger the RNA interference mechanism to induce rapid, deep, and durable knockdown of target genes. RNA interference, or RNAi, is a mechanism present in living cells that inhibits the expression of a specific gene, thereby affecting the production of a specific protein. Arrowhead’s RNAi-based therapeutics leverage this natural pathway of gene silencing.

Arrowhead is focused on developing innovative drugs for diseases with a genetic basis, typically characterized by the overproduction of one or more proteins that are involved with disease. The depth and versatility of our RNAi technologies enables us to potentially address conditions in virtually any therapeutic area and pursue disease targets that are not otherwise addressable by small molecules and biologics. Arrowhead is leading the field in bringing the promise of RNAi to address diseases outside of the liver, and our clinical pipeline includes disease targets in the liver and lung with a promising pipeline of preclinical candidates.

Arrowhead’s corporate headquarters is in Pasadena, CA with research and development teams in Madison, WI and San Diego, CA.  Our employees are nimble, science-driven innovators who are collaborating to bring new therapies to patients in need. 

The Position

Join our Discovery Chemistry Team as an intern and gain hands-on experience in molecular synthesis and targeted drug delivery. This internship focuses on the development of small molecules, linkers, and oligonucleotide modifications to support therapeutic research. You will collaborate with scientists to explore innovative solutions, contribute to research initiatives, and support key laboratory operations. This role provides a valuable opportunity to develop specialized skills, enhance productivity, and gain exposure to cutting-edge drug discovery efforts.

This is a 12-week, fully onsite Summer Internship Program paying $22.00/hr.   

Responsibilities

Work under the supervision of senior scientists to design, synthesize, and purify organic small molecules, including nucleotides and amidites. Independently purify compounds using flash chromatography and preparative HPLC. Characterize compounds using analytical techniques such as NMR, LC-MS, and other laboratory methods. Maintain a detailed electronic lab notebook, documenting synthetic protocols and compound characterization. Follow chemical hygiene and safety protocols, ensuring proper handling, storage, and lab safety compliance.

Requirements:

Currently enrolled student at an Accredited University or College and majoring in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, or related field Completion of at least one semester of organic chemistry and one semester of organic chemistry lab. Excellent verbal and written communication skills Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and ChemDraw Strong problem-solving skills Eagerness to learn new techniques Ability to work in a lab setting for prolonged periods of time Ability to wear personal protective equipment as required Must be able to lift 15 pounds at a time

Preferred:

Proficiency with CombiFlash purification systems, Shimadzu LC-MS/HPLC systems, and MNova  California pay range $10,560—$10,560 USD

Arrowhead provides competitive salaries and an excellent benefit package.   

All applicants must have authorization to work in the US for a company.   

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