Please note - this is an "equity only" internship at an early stage startup. There may be potential for pay in future evolutions of the role.
ABOUT COMPANY
The hiring company is a UIUC startup in stealth mode developing a next-generation molecular diagnostics platform based on photonic resonator absorption microscopy (PRAM), a technology developed through more than 15 years of research at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with over $23 million in NIH and NSF support. The platform enables ultrasensitive optical detection and digital molecular analysis for rapid, high-performance biomarker testing.
By integrating advanced nanophotonics, optical biosensing, and molecular assay engineering, this technology enables direct detection of proteins, nucleic acids, microRNA, and other low-abundance biomarkers with simpler workflows than conventional PCR, sequencing, and immunoassay systems. Initial applications span oncology, neurology, inflammation, infectious disease, RNA therapeutics, and precision medicine, with a long-term path toward point-of-care deployment.
ABOUT THE ROLE
PhotonicDx is seeking a motivated and entrepreneurial Business Development & Fundraising Intern to help accelerate the growth of our next-generation molecular diagnostics company.
This role is ideal for an undergraduate student interested in biotechnology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, venture capital, consulting, business development, or startup operations who wants firsthand experience helping build an early-stage venture-backed company.
The intern will work directly with company leadership on strategic growth initiatives, including investor outreach, grant applications, partnership development, customer discovery, market research, and business development activities. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to fundraising, commercialization strategy, healthcare innovation, and the day-to-day realities of building a biotechnology startup.
The successful candidate will help execute high-priority growth initiatives while developing practical skills in business development, project management, market analysis, investor relations, and startup strategy.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Business Development
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis to support company growth initiatives
- Identify and research prospective customers, partners, collaborators, and industry stakeholders
- Support outreach campaigns aligned with company strategic priorities
- Maintain and organize business development pipelines and contact databases
- Assist with customer discovery interviews and partnership discussions
Fundraising & Grants
- Support preparation of grant applications, grant submissions, and supporting documentation
- Assist with project management of grant deadlines, deliverables, and reporting requirements
- Research grant opportunities from federal agencies, foundations, universities, and industry organizations
- Identify and research prospective investors, strategic partners, and funding sources
- Assist with investor outreach efforts and investor pipeline management
REQUIREMENTS
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and project management abilities
- Comfortable conducting research and synthesizing information from multiple sources
- Highly motivated, self-directed, and able to work independently
- Interest in biotechnology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, venture capital, consulting, business, or related fields
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and online research tools
PREFERRED
- Majoring in Liberal Arts, Business, Economics, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Administration, Political Science, Public Policy, or related disciplines
- Experience in student leadership, entrepreneurship, consulting clubs, startup organizations, research labs, or business competitions
- Interest in venture capital, startup fundraising, healthcare innovation, or biotechnology commercialization
- Familiarity with online systems, project management tools, AI tools, or data analysis platforms
LOCATION
Remote
COMPENSATION
This is an equity-only internship designed for students seeking significant startup experience and professional development. Interns will receive equity participation through the company’s equity incentive program, providing the opportunity to share in future company success.
Additional benefits include:
- Direct mentorship from company CEO
- Hands-on experience with fundraising, grant writing, and business development
- Exposure to investors, industry leaders, academic researchers, and healthcare innovators
- Meaningful resume-building experience
- Professional references and recommendation letters for strong performers
- Potential future paid opportunities as the company grows
Expected Commitment: Approximately 5-10 hours per week with at least 1 hour each of 5 days per week (M-F) with flexible scheduling during the academic year + over the summer. Also time off when you wish for vacations etc. of course. Plus optional opportunity to attend external and internal meetings for your own learning experience.
Pay: $9,999.00 per month
Application Question(s):
- Are you open to an unpaid (equity only) internship where the main benefits to you are the educational and resume building value?
- Are you able to work at least 1 hour per day M to F (remotely and independently but with direction from CEO)?
Work Location: Remote
