The IVF & Sexed Semen Laboratory (SSL) Intern will gain hands-on experience in a production laboratory environment supporting bovine reproductive technologies. This internship provides exposure to IVF and sexed semen laboratory operations, develops technical laboratory and professional skills, and prepares participants for potential future full-time or part-time laboratory technician opportunities within the organization.
Major Areas of Accountability
Observe, learn, and assist with daily IVF and SSL laboratory procedures.
Follow laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and quality standards.
Assist with sample preparation, labeling, inventory management, and laboratory documentation.
Support laboratory preparation tasks, including media prep, plate making, and other production-related activities.
Perform assigned laboratory tasks under supervision with increasing responsibility throughout the internship.
Conduct quality control checks and accurately record laboratory data.
Maintain organization, cleanliness, and efficiency within the laboratory environment.
Participate in daily team meetings, workflow planning, and operational discussions.
Assist with basic data analysis, troubleshooting activities, and process improvement initiatives.
Complete a final project or presentation summarizing internship experiences, key learnings, and recommendations.
Qualifications
Currently pursuing a degree in Animal Science, Biology, Reproductive Physiology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
Ability to sit and stand for long periods of time behind a microscope, in a sterile lab setting.
Ability to work under a laminar flow hood.
Ability to work in cold temperatures for long periods of time (as low as 60⁰F)
Basic understanding of biological sciences and laboratory principles through coursework or related experience preferred.
Detail-oriented with the ability to follow procedures accurately and consistently.
Good hand to eye coordination
Some travel may be required
Applications will close on November 6th, 2026.
About UsTrans Ova Genetics, a member of the URUS Group, provides industry-leading reproductive technologies and expertise to cattle breeders through a unique professional services team that works closely with clients to understand their breeding goals and ultimately help clients advance and extend superior genetics. Trans Ova Genetics understands the process that will help multiply a herd’s genetic success. Reproductive technologies such as embryo transfer, in-vitro fertilization (IVF), sexed-semen, genetic preservation, and cloning are considered the reproductive “tools” available for breeders looking to achieve specific breeding and reproductive goals. Internationally recognized as a source of superior animal husbandry and reproductive expertise, Trans Ova Genetics offers an integrated system of regional centers, satellite stations, and on-farm application of reproductive technologies.
Trans Ova's headquarters are in Sioux Center, Iowa, but we have many offices and satellite centers across the country. On-going research and applied science allow Trans Ova Genetics to develop and implement new technologies to help move the science of bovine genetic improvement forward. Trans Ova is dedicated to meeting the requirements of their customers and to continual improvement.
Skills Required
- Currently pursuing a degree in Animal Science, Biology, Reproductive Physiology, Biotechnology, or a related field
- Ability to sit and stand for extended periods while working behind a microscope
- Ability to work in a sterile laboratory setting and under a laminar flow hood
- Ability to work in cold temperatures for extended periods, as low as 60°F
- Detail-oriented and able to follow procedures accurately and consistently
- Good hand-to-eye coordination
- Basic understanding of biological sciences and laboratory principles through coursework or related experience
- Some travel may be required
What We Do
We Create Value We do more than produce and market semen from high caliber sires. We aim to create value for farmers by striving to understand each farm’s individual needs and goals. Our innovative genetic programs and reproductive services make the difference at the farm level. Using customized programs, specific to each producer's needs, we promise to improve individual herd profitability. We Build Trust Trust is built on the foundation to provide top quality products and services that deliver on their promise. We commit to providing such programs and services every day. Our unique product development testing standards are the most rigorous and accurate in the world, and are the clearest statement of our commitment to gaining your trust. We Deliver Results Our people, who have a passion for the business, can be counted on to deliver beyond expectation. We consistently deliver high impact genetic results and strategies to maximize herd profitability. We provide services to improve each farm's reproductive performance and capitalize on genetic investments. We take our responsibility seriously – to deliver excellence through our products, programs and services that generate profit for the progressive farms we work with around the world.
