The Engine, built by MIT, invests in early-stage companies solving the world’s biggest problems through the convergence of breakthrough science, engineering, and leadership. We accelerate the path to market for Tough Tech companies through a combination of capital, infrastructure, and network. These Tough Tech companies work in diverse arenas including advanced materials, energy, quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, biotech, food & ag, robotics, space, and more.
The Engine Fund invests long-term capital in startups that need time to make an impact. Develops founders from technical pioneers to company leaders by providing them with entrepreneurial knowledge, expertise, inspiration, and guidance.
The Engine Network facilitates the creation of long-term mutually beneficial relationships between founders, startups, corporates, government, venture capital, among others.
The Engine Infrastructure provides access to specialized labs, equipment, tools and space, both on-site and through a network of partner facilities, necessary to build transformative technologies economically and efficiently.
The Engine is located in Central Square in Cambridge and operates a 30,000 square-feet facility with co-working offices, a bio lab, a wet chemistry lab and a prototyping shop. Since opening its doors in June 2017, The Engine has committed resources to 19 companies and created an unprecedented framework for bringing tough tech from the lab to the commercial world. The Engine is run by a lean and highly collaborative team. Our website contains additional details about our founders, our team, our mission and our offering: http://www.engine.xyz
Job Description
The intern will assist with the scientific and technical diligence of incoming opportunities and landscape mapping for various tough tech areas. This position will work closely with the Engine investment team evaluating the foundation of potential new investments as well as placing these opportunities within a broader context. Specifically the responsibilities can include:
- Gain an understanding of the scientific research, publications and IP at the foundation of the company
- Identify key academic and industry experts in the field
- Develop an understanding of the state of the field the company is planning to disrupt
- Identify the target company’s potential competitors and partners
- Identify, categorize and prioritize the key scientific/technical risks the company has already retired versus those they are still facing
- Evaluate forward-going R&D plan and strategy of the potential company
- Help prepare internal investment memos
Skills And Qualifications
- Motivated by The Engine’s mission to enable tough tech entrepreneurs to create world-changing companies
- PhD student (ideally 4th or 5th year) or postdoc in an engineering or (applied) science discipline with ability to dedicate 10-15hrs per week to The Engine; must be affiliated with one of the universities in the greater Boston area
- Preferentially demonstrated significant activity in science/technology disciplines outside own doctoral field or worked in “convergence”/interdisciplinary areas
- Fast and eager learner, naturally curious and passionate about new technologies
- Outstanding analytical skills and attention to detail without losing sight of the larger goals and context
- Execution-driven with ability to work in a flexible, dynamic and fast-paced environment
- Pro-active and self-motivated, while also taking directions well or seeking directions when needed
- Able to present and communicate effectively
- Bonus: growing network in the greater Boston academic and entrepreneurial ecosystem
How do I apply?
Please submit a resume and a cover letter. If after reviewing your application, you are selected to continue the interview process, we will reach out to set up an in-person meeting.
Note this is a paid internship opportunity, so if you are a foreign national, please make sure your visa allows you to receive financial compensation.
If interested, please apply here.
