Hybrid Research Intern bei Cedars-Sinai Cancer Center

Research Intern – Toro Health Pathways / Cedars-Sinai Postbac Fellowship
Department: Biomedical Sciences
Location: Cedars-Sinai Cancer Center

Overview:
The Toro Health Pathways/Cedars-Sinai Postbac Fellowship is a for-credit, 9-month immersive internship designed for recent graduates of CSU Dominguez Hills with degrees in health-related fields. Hosted by Cedars-Sinai Cancer Center, the program offers hands-on research experience in cancer biology, specifically focused on microbiome-based therapeutic approaches to hormone-driven cancers.

About the Lab & Research Focus:
This research team combines synthetic biology, microbiology, and cancer research to develop engineered gut bacteria that degrade androgens and help suppress tumor growth. The Department of Biomedical Sciences is a collaborative environment advancing research in immunology, genomics, neuroscience, cell biology, metabolism, bioinformatics, diagnostics, and therapeutics.

Internship Goals & Learning Objectives:
Interns will:

• Engage in cutting-edge cancer research with a focus on microbiome therapeutics

• Learn core lab skills such as animal handling, molecular cloning, and bacterial culture

• Participate in research meetings, data analysis, and experimental design

• Gain exposure to mouse modeling, gut microbiota isolation, and molecular biology techniques

• Build professional connections through lab activities and campus events

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage mouse colonies and assist with experimental cancer models

• Collect tissue and stool samples

• Culture gut microbiota and isolate bacterial colonies

• Learn and apply molecular cloning techniques for enzyme development

• Maintain accurate lab records and assist in troubleshooting experiments

Training & Timeline:

• Month 1: Orientation, goal-setting, animal handling certification, lab safety, and introductory techniques

• Months 2–6: Ongoing supervision, weekly check-ins, training in animal work, microbiota techniques, and cloning methods

• Months 7–9: Independent lab work, advanced molecular techniques, data interpretation, and creation of a final poster or presentation

Additional Notes:

• Research is conducted under IRB-approved protocols and involves animal models

• Comprehensive training will be provided in all relevant research and safety procedures

• Interns will receive ongoing mentorship from experienced research staff

Eligibility – Required:

• Must be 18 years or older with a HS diploma or GED

• Must reside in the Greater Los Angeles area during the internship

• Must be receiving academic credit throughout the internship