Job Description
Research Intern Opportunity at Africa Health Research Institute NPC
The Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) is seeking a Research Intern to join the Basic and Translational Science department. This internship offers postgraduate researchers with a master’s degree the chance to gain hands-on experience in an international HIV cure research initiative.
The role focuses on supporting laboratory characterization of immune dynamics in women who participated in a dual broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAb) clinical trial. The Graduate Research Intern will provide technical support for B Cell and Genomic Characterization activities and analyze humoral immune responses.
Primary duties involve processing longitudinal clinical samples and assisting with host and viral Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows. These efforts will track B cell receptor (BCR) changes and virus-specific antibody responses following Analytical Treatment Interruption (ATI). The intern will contribute to high-quality primary data generation under senior researchers’ guidance to inform future HIV vaccine and cure strategies.
Exceptional performance and available funding may allow the intern to pursue doctoral studies within the group.
Overview of Duties
- Single-Cell Genomics and Sequencing Support: Prepare 10X Genomics 5’ V(D)J and Gene Expression libraries from clinical specimens; coordinate sequencing runs on Illumina NextSeq platform; perform initial quality control of genomic data; apply basic bioinformatics for antibody repertoire analysis and B cell lineage tracking; analyze humoral immune responses with advanced serological techniques.
- Cellular Phenotyping and Serological Analysis: Use high-parameter flow cytometry to identify HIV-specific B cell subsets; prepare and stain multi-color panels for memory B cell populations; perform immunological assays tracking virus-specific humoral responses.
- Data Translation and Scientific Support: Collate and organize laboratory results for presentations; assist in data visualization and technical summaries; support manuscript and report preparation; present findings at scientific meetings.
- Consortium Engagement: Participate in technical discussions ensuring standardized molecular protocols across study sites.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience
- Master’s degree in Medical Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or related Biological Science field.
- Foundational understanding of HIV virology and host immune responses.
- Experience with Molecular Biology techniques including PCR, sequencing, and sequence analysis.
- Previous laboratory experience in a BSL-2 environment handling human biological specimens safely.
- Competence in oral and written scientific data presentation.
- Strong English communication skills, accuracy, and high computer literacy.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure.