1) Can I only do a summer (3-month) internship? No. Three months is not enough time to receive adequate training experience in a laboratory setting and not worthwhile for the company to devote significant time and resources for a short period. Six months would be the minimum acceptable time-frame, but nine-months is highly preferred and strongly recommended. Because of the time commitment, we typically accept college seniors or graduates into the program.
2) When does the internship program start? Generally in January, May, or September. The program is a rolling application process, and candidates may be invited to start at other times.
3) What hours/days of the week must I devote to the lab? Typically, Monday through Thursday, 8:30am to ~1:30pm for the part-time path. For the full-time path, simply longer hours and/or more days.
4) Is there full-time employment available? Full-time employment may be offered only to those who successfully complete Aptagen's internship program first.
5) I'm a college graduate and have significant experience. I cannot volunteer for the initial three months without additional pay. Can an exception be made for my situation? Unfortunately, No. Most candidates financially support themselves by taking a temporary part-time job after-hours and/or enlist the support from family during this period.
6) If I'm invited for an onsite interview, will the company reimburse me for accommodations and travel expenses? Unfortunately, No.
7) Why isn't the stipend pay higher? The company invests significant amounts of time and resources in training. Unfortunately, candidates will inevitably make experimental errors, which is likely during the course of the program; however, these occurrences may be costly to the company. It is a natural part of the learning curve, but at the expense and time of the company.
The program is a necessary extension of time and expenses in education beyond the classroom to gain technical skills and experience for a resume.
8) What is the likelihood for successfully completing the entire Internship Program? The current internship success rate is 59%
9) Can you explain the pie chart regarding the graduation rate from the Internship program? Aptagen's training program is probably the most demanding and competitive internship/Co-op experiences any one candidate will encounter. It is not easy, and it is not for everyone-- mostly due to the lack of long-term commitment as a result of the financial burden or living expenses the candidate faces during the entirety of the program. However, the candidates that survive the intensive training program will have a significant competitive edge over their peers and will be well prepared in reaching their career goals.
* If an error occurs in the submission page, please send your resume to mailbox@aptagen.com