PhD Intern Scientist, Bioengineering

About Countable Labs

At Countable Labs (formerly Enumerix), we are redefining what modern genomics can be. Our Countable PCR platform delivers highly accurate, multiplexed quantification with the simplicity of qPCR and at a cost that makes advanced genomics broadly accessible.

In 2025, Countable PCR was recognized with both Analytical Scientist and Scientist Innovation awards, validating the platform's scientific impact and real-world value. Backed by top-tier life sciences venture capital firms, we are building a category-defining technology that enables next-level genomics for clinical and research applications.

We are a fast-growing, mission-driven startup where ownership is real, innovation is expected, and product leaders have the opportunity to shape the future of an entire platform. If you want to take charge of a portfolio, guide world-class science into the market, and see your decisions translate directly into customer impact, this is the role for you.

About the Opportunity

We are looking for a PhD candidate in bioengineering to join us for a summer internship, working directly with our CTO at a fast-paced life science tools startup.

This role is suited for scientists who are natural tinkerers — technically broad, intellectually curious, and genuinely excited about developing new tools and workflows that advance science and healthcare.

What We're Looking For

A doctoral candidate with hands-on experience across a range of cell and molecular biology techniques, including flow cytometry, NGS, digital PCR, single-cell and spatial workflows, cell and tissue handling, and fixation workflows. Experience in technique and workflow development is essential. We value those who think creatively and are eager to build what doesn't yet exist.

What This Internship Offers

Direct mentorship from our CTO, meaningful project ownership, and real contributions to technology development. Experience firsthand what it means to work in a Silicon Valley startup — and the pace, culture, and ambition that comes with it. This internship is also an ideal opportunity for PhD candidates weighing their next steps, offering genuine insight into what an industry career path looks.

Duration: Max 12 weeks spanning June to August 2026, at max 40 hours per week.

Based in our Palo Alto, CA headquarters. Local candidates strongly preferred.

Qualifications

Required

• PhD candidate in Bioengineering with at least 3 years of lab experience, with focus in technology advancements in molecular and cell biology applications
• Must have hands-on experience with flow cytometry, cell and tissue fixation, qPCR
• Preferably, analytical ability with image analysis
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex experimental and workflow challenges
• Track record of publications, posters
• Versatile and resourceful experimentalist at the bench, with superb attention to details
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present technical findings to both scientific and non-scientific stakeholders.
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability, with demonstrated ability to drive projects from concept through execution and completion while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.