Intern - PCR Assay Development (m/f/d)

Intern – Assay Development (Biomedical Science) (m/f/d)

Location: Bodelshausen, Germany

Start Date: September/October 2026

Duration: 6-9 months

Application: Send CV to [email protected]

About Curetis

Curetis is a molecular diagnostics company based in Bodelshausen, Germany, best known for its Unyvero platform – a rapid syndromic testing system that helps clinicians identify severe infections and antibiotic resistances within hours instead of days. Our platform utilizes powerful multiplex PCR technology to detect a wide variety of microorganisms and antibiotic resistance markers, from sample-to-answer in under 5 hours.

We are now strengthening our assay development capabilities to expand our portfolio and bring new diagnostic tests to market. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to real product development in a regulated medical device environment (ISO 13485, IVDR).

The Role

We are looking for a Biomedical Science Masters student to join our R&D team as an Assay Development Intern.

You will work on the development and optimization of real-time PCR-based assays for infectious disease diagnostics, under the direct mentorship of our Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and cross-functional R&D team. This is a hands-on laboratory role where you will:

· Design and optimize real-time PCR assays (primers, probes, reaction conditions).

· Perform assay testing and validation using clinical and reference samples.

· Analyze experimental data and document results in compliance with ISO 13485 / IVDR.

· Support the transfer of assays from R&D to manufacturing.

· Work closely with cross-functional teams (R&D, QC, Manufacturing).

What We're Looking For:

Essential

· Enrolled in a Masters programme in Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a comparable discipline at a German university.

· Hands-on experience with real-time PCR (assay design, optimization, and data analysis) – preferably in an academic or industry lab setting.

· Excellent German and English skills, both written and spoken – you will need to read and write technical documents skilfully in both languages.

· Structured, independent, and reliable work ethic with strong attention to detail.

· Interest in infectious disease diagnostics and molecular biology.

· Ability to work on-site in Bodelshausen and collaborate closely with the team.

Ideally, in addition

· Experience with multiplex PCR or assay development for infectious diseases.

· Familiarity with ISO 13485 or IVDR regulatory requirements.

· Experience with primer/probe design software.

· Knowledge of statistical analysis for assay validation.

· Experience with automated liquid handling systems.

What We Offer

1. Direct Mentorship from our CTO: Work side-by-side with our Chief Technology Officer, gaining invaluable high-level strategic and technical mentorship that will accelerate your career in biomedical R&D. 2. Real Assay Development Work: Contribute to actual product development – not just theoretical exercises. Your work will directly impact our diagnostic portfolio.

3. Regulated Environment Exposure: Gain hands-on experience in a medical device company with ISO 13485 and IVDR-compliant processes.

4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work across R&D, QC, and Manufacturing on real projects.

5. Fast Feedback Loops: Your contributions get tested and iterated on quickly, with direct mentorship from experienced scientists.

6. Compensation: We offer fair remuneration for your work.

7. Entrepreneurial Freedom: Take ownership of your tasks and contribute ideas that shape our products.

What We're Looking For (Beyond the Technical)

· A structured thinker who is comfortable working with incomplete information and framing hypotheses.

· Hands-on and flexible, willing to work on-site in Bodelshausen.

· Fluent in German and English (both essential for documentation and team collaboration).

· Eager to learn fast, iterate quickly, and take on real ownership from day one.

Process

1. 15-minute call to discuss your background, interests, and availability.

2. Technical Interview: Discussion of your experience with real-time PCR, assay development, and molecular biology.

3. Final Interview: Meet with the CTO, R&D team, and leadership to align on expectations and goals.

How to Apply

Send your CV (with a brief cover note highlighting your real-time PCR experience) to:

📧 [email protected]

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis, so don't wait.

Curetis GmbH

Robert-Bosch-Straße 4

72411 Bodelshausen, Germany