Summer Intern - Quality Control (Microbiology Testing)

Forge Your Future with Us:

At Forge Biologics, we believe in turning bold ideas into life-changing realities. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to enable access to life-changing gene therapies and help bring them from ideas into reality. We partner with scientists, physicians, biotech and pharma innovators, and patient communities — all united by one goal: improving lives. If you’re driven by purpose and excited to make a tangible impact, this is where your journey begins.

Our team works out of The Hearth, a state-of-the-art, 200,000-square-foot cGMP facility in Columbus, Ohio. Here, you won’t just watch innovation happen — you’ll be part of it. Whether you’re scaling AAV manufacturing, collaborating on cutting-edge therapies, or supporting complex technical projects, you’ll play a key role in bringing hope to patients with genetic diseases.

What sets Forge apart is our culture of H.O.P.E. We are hardworking, showing up each day with determination and grit. We are open, creating a space where ideas flow freely and every voice is valued. We are purpose-driven, with every task directly tied to changing lives. And we are engaged, energized by the challenges we face and the milestones we achieve together.

At Forge, your growth matters. We’re committed to helping you expand your skills, take on new challenges, and develop your career through mentorship, hands-on learning, and opportunities for advancement. Our people are our greatest investment, and we’re proud to see team members grow with us.

If you’re ready to use your talent to help deliver hope to patients around the world, join us — and be part of something bigger than yourself.

About the Role 

Forge Biologics is seeking a Quality Control (QC) – Microbiology Testing Intern to join our 2026 Ignite Internship Program. In this role, you will support environmental monitoring and microbiological testing activities that ensure compliance with cGMP standards and product quality. You will gain hands-on experience in sampling, testing, and data analysis within a regulated laboratory environment.

What you’ll do: 

• Assist with environmental monitoring sampling in classified cleanroom areas (air, surfaces, personnel) and perform Microbiological/Bioburden testing for raw materials, buffers, incoming media, in-process samples and final products.

• Assist with preparation of SOPs, methods, work instructions, and testing forms.

• Support data entry and documentation for environmental monitoring results in compliance with cGMP requirements.

• Help prepare and maintain QC records, logs, and reports for regulatory audits.

• Participate in investigations and trending analysis of environmental data under guidance from QC Analysts.

• Gain exposure to aseptic techniques, contamination control strategies, and quality systems.

• Collaborate with QC and Manufacturing teams to ensure timely completion of monitoring activities.

What you’ll bring: 

• Incoming junior or senior for Summer 2026, currently enrolled in a full-time bachelor’s degree program at an accredited college or university.

• Minimum 3.0 GPA or equivalent.

• Majoring in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, or related life sciences field.

• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work in a controlled environment.

• Interest in microbiology, contamination control, and quality assurance principles.

Why you’ll love it: 

• Work on meaningful projects impacting gene therapy manufacturing.

• Participate in bi-weekly intern programming, including networking with Forge leaders and career development workshops.

• Be part of a dynamic, patient-focused organization driving innovation in advanced therapies.

• Receive mentorship from QC leaders and collaborate with industry experts.

Forge Biologics Ignite Internship Program is designed to provide meaningful experiences in a professional environment while giving our interns the experience to network with Senior Leadership and peers through a variety of activities and events.  During the Summer Internship Program, you will work on real business issues/projects and learn from industry leaders.  Our interns will work onsite at our offices in Grove City, OH (just 15 minutes from downtown Columbus, Ohio).   

Duration: The 2026 intern program runs for 12 weeks, from May 18 to August 7.  

Please Note: Forge Biologics does not provide housing or relocation stipends for non-local interns. Candidates are responsible for securing their own housing and transportation for the duration of the internship.  

Work Environment and Physical Demands  

This position works in both a laboratory environment and typical office environment where the physical work demands will vary depending on the specific tasks and duties required of the job. The employee will be stationary (standing/sitting) for extended periods of time. Employees regularly wear personal protective equipment based on the task being performed. Must be able to work in a confined space, such as a clean room or laboratory environment. Ability to identify small details within the field of vision, distinguish between different colors, and accurately identify objects within a specific area. 

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned. 

Forge Biologics is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. Forge Biologics, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.