Microbiology Product Development Intern

Position Title

Microbiology Product Development Intern - Summer 2027

Location

Lansing, MI

Duration

Approximately 10-12 weeks, beginning in June

About Us

At Neogen, we are committed to developing future talent by providing meaningful internship experiences that offer real-world exposure, professional development, and opportunities to contribute to business priorities.

Position Summary

The Microbiology Product Development Intern will support key initiatives within the department while gaining hands-on experience in a professional corporate environment. This internship provides an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real business challenges, collaborate with experienced professionals, and develop valuable career skills.

Internship Project

The intern will work on a structured project designed to:

• Address a meaningful business need
• Deliver measurable outcomes
• Be completed within the internship timeframe
• Provide exposure to cross-functional collaboration
• Result in a final presentation and/or deliverable

Potential Project Description:

• Support ongoing microbiology product development projects through hands-on laboratory testing.
• Perform testing with spoilage indicator organisms, including yeasts, molds, and total viable count organisms.
• Conduct studies involving foodborne pathogens such as Listeria and Salmonella.
• Prepare samples, execute test methods, collect data, and maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Analyze and summarize study results to support product development decisions.
• Contribute to the development of rapid, easy-to-use microbial detection methods for food, nutraceutical, and personal care applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with departmental projects and daily operations
• Analyze data and provide recommendations
• Conduct research and prepare reports or presentations
• Participate in team meetings and project discussions
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners as needed
• Present project findings and recommendations at the conclusion of the internship
• Complete additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in: 
  • Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

Preferred

• Experience with Microsoft PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

What Interns Will Gain

• Hands-on experience in the Microbiology Product Development function
• Exposure to real business challenges and projects
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Networking opportunities with leaders and team members
• Professional development opportunities
• Experience presenting business recommendations to leadership

Learning Objectives

By the end of the internship, the student will:

• Develop knowledge of the industry and laboratory operations
• Strengthen professional communication skills
• Gain practical experience applying academic concepts
• Build laboratory technical skills and problem-solving capabilities
• Deliver a final project focused on a research application

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay
• Professional development activities
• Networking opportunities
• Participation in intern events and learning sessions

Equal Opportunity Statement

Neogen is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics.