GRADUATE & INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS
Build the Future of Cannabinoid Therapeutics with Dunbar Pharma
“We’re on a mission to deliver precision, purity, and patient-centered cannabinoid APIs to the global pharmaceutical market.”
Shaping the Future of Cannabinoid Science
Graduate & Internship Programs
Why Start Your Journey With Us?
At Dunbar Pharmaceuticals, we believe in fostering the next generation of scientific innovators and leaders. Our Graduate Program and Annual Internship Program provide immersive, hands-on experiences in cannabinoid research, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and regulatory compliance—all within a GMP-certified facility.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or still pursuing your degree, we offer you the opportunity to work alongside leading experts in cannabinoid reserach and GMP Manufacturing, contributing directly to cutting-edge research, product development and GMP manufacturing.
Our Programs
1. Graduate Program
For recent graduates eager to make a difference.
Duration: 12-24 months
Departments: R&D, Quality Control & Assurance, Process Science, Regulatory Affairs.
What You’ll Do:
- Jump right in with a formal department and obtain full GMP and site wide training.
- Contribute to real-world projects that shape our product pipeline.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams in a GMP environment.
- Receive mentorship from senior scientists and industry leaders.
- Gain exposure to AI-driven research, validation, and advanced manufacturing processes.
- Build expertise across research, innovation, and GMP production.
Development:
- Regular workshops on regulatory standards, quality systems, health & safety, and scientific innovation.
- Professional development in leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
- A structured pathway to grow into a well-rounded industry professional.
2. Annual Internship Program
In partnership with top universities in Ireland and abroad.
Duration: 12 weeks-24 weeks
Eligibility: Current undergraduates or postgraduates in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Engineering or related fields.
What You’ll Do:
- Work on focused projects within R&D, Quality Control, or Process Science.
- Gain hands-on lab experience with expert mentoring.
- Participate in workshops and seminars.
- Present your findings to the wider scientific team at the end of your program.
Open Programs
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This internship offers a structured introduction to GMP Production and Process Science, equipping you to play an active role in the compliant manufacture of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). You will gain hands-on experience in controlled cleanroom operations, process documentation, in-process controls, cleanroom cleaning, and the fundamentals of scale-up under GMP. Interns will be immersed in process optimisation, validation practices, and exposure to global standards such as ICH Q7. By the end of the program, you will have first-hand insight into the standards and precision required to deliver APIs to the world’s highest quality benchmarks.
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This immersive internship introduces you to the Research & Development function within Dunbar. You will work on projects that bridge laboratory science and industrial application, including method development, stability studies, and the development of organic chemistry processes. Interns will contribute to research pipelines focused on innovative cannabinoid-based APIs, applying scientific creativity while adhering to rigorous regulatory frameworks including a detailed focus on Quality By Design. The program highlights how innovation and compliance work hand-in-hand, preparing you to become a driver of pharmaceutical progress in a sector setting global standards.
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This internship offers a deep dive into the Quality Assurance department, the cornerstone of regulatory compliance in GMP API manufacturing. You will gain practical experience in document control systems, GDP (Good Documentation Practice), deviation and CAPA management, change control, and the implementation of ICH Q7 requirements. Interns will also observe internal and external audits, learning how quality culture underpins every decision in a world-class GMP facility. By contributing to real QA workflows, you will understand how excellence in quality assurance ensures trust from regulators, partners, and ultimately patients worldwide.
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This structured internship provides an intensive introduction to the Quality Control laboratory, where precision and compliance safeguard product integrity. Interns will gain practical training in sample prep, documentation, analytical testing of APIs, raw materials, and intermediates, with exposure to validated methods such as HPLC, GC, and KF and IR techniques. You will also learn about data integrity, OOS/OOT investigations, and regulatory expectations for laboratory controls. By working alongside experienced analysts in a GMP-certified QC lab, you will develop the technical and regulatory expertise essential for ensuring products meet global release standards.
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This internship places you at the intersection of finance and pharmaceutical operations, where strategic decision-making supports innovation in GMP API manufacturing. You will gain experience in financial analysis, cost modelling for API production, budget management, and exposure to the economics of regulated supply chains. Interns will also assist in reporting processes that demonstrate compliance with investor, board, and regulatory expectations. By working within a high-growth pharmaceutical company, you will learn how financial strategy sustains global competitiveness in a tightly regulated industry.
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Gain unique exposure to the backbone of pharmaceutical operations. This internship blends engineering, facilities, and warehousing, offering hands-on experience in cleanroom qualification, environmental monitoring, utilities management (HVAC, purified water, gases), and preventive maintenance programs. You’ll also support equipment engineering projects, calibration, and process reliability initiatives. In warehousing, you’ll learn GMP-compliant material handling, inventory control, and temperature-mapped storage. By the end of the program, you will understand how world-class facilities, engineering, and supply systems are designed, validated, and maintained to power compliant, global-scale API manufacturing.
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This creative internship offers the opportunity to apply design skills in a regulated pharmaceutical setting. Interns will contribute to the development of compliant artwork for product packaging, internal communications, and corporate branding, ensuring visual materials meet both regulatory standards and brand excellence. You will gain experience in design software, visual storytelling, and the creation of materials that reflect the company’s position as a global leader in GMP cannabinoid API manufacturing. This program uniquely combines creativity with precision, preparing you for a design career in a highly regulated industry.
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Don’t see an internship that feels like the perfect fit? We encourage you to apply anyway. Many skills transfer across departments, and we value enthusiasm, adaptability, and curiosity just as much as direct experience. Bring your perspective and ambition – your contribution could make a real impact in shaping the future of GMP API manufacturing.
Testimonials
Name: Áine Greene
Grad Start Date: July 2024
Qualifications: BSc in Biotechnology, MSc in Biopharmaceutical Technology
Current Department: Operations
“I was extremely lucky to be a part of the development stages of new pharmaceutical processes, from research and development to technology transfer in a GMP environment. Working in small company helped me to gain responsibility and practical knowledge quicker than what you would expect in a larger company. As a recent graduate entering the pharmaceutical industry, I found it extremely valuable to gain insight into how projects operate across departments and to understand the critical role of technical expertise in manufacturing operations. In my role as a Process Scientist, I’m involved in complex and engaging manufacturing activities, and I’m developing specialised skills in maintaining a range of equipment—expertise that is widely applicable across the pharmaceutical sector.”
Name: Stacy Aghware
Grad Start Date: January 2025
Qualifications: BSc Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science
Current Department: Operations
“The Graduate Program at Dunbar Pharmaceuticals has been an incredible journey of growth and learning. It has offered me the unique opportunity to explore diverse areas of the company, from Process Science to QC assistant training and R&D. This experience has allowed me to broaden my knowledge and integrate seamlessly into the team. Throughout my time in the program, I’ve gained more confidence in my abilities and have been entrusted with responsibilities, which has allowed me to develop leadership skills and work more independently. The support from the QC team has been invaluable, with ongoing training and guidance. I highly recommend the Graduate Program at Dunbar Pharmaceuticals for anyone eager to learn and grow professionally!“
Name: Ash Frater
Internship Start Date: October 2024
Current Department: Research & Development
“When I first applied for the role of an intern, I was expecting to be running around making coffees and cleaning up after people. However, I have been pleasantly surprised to learn that the Mercury Rising intern experience is actually an incredibly interesting and robust learning experience that has really boosted my knowledge, confidence and overall skills across a variety of areas.
The main thing I wanted to improve by applying to be an intern was my confidence. Mercury Rising provided me the means to do this by offering hands-on learning, which allowed me to develop new ways of thinking and gave me a critical chance to experience opportunities I never would have been able to otherwise. For example, I have learned how to use CAD software to create 3D models in programs such as SolidWorks, and printed some of these models using a 3D printer. I have also made many technical drawings and diagrams for the company, all of which are valuable skills across many work industries. Furthermore, I have been able to experience a truly functioning lab environment, which has been vital in furthering my knowledge – theory alone cannot compare to being in the midst of a bustling lab and gaining real-world, useful experience as part of a team.
This internship really stands out because of how much Mercury Rising cares about its employees. The cultivated atmosphere in the office is so relaxed compared to other companies, allowing a space where everyone can express our own opinions and insights without fear; feedback is an accepted part of the workplace rather than being seen as criticism. There are also training days and staff trips to ensure everyone is always on the same page and remains safe, and to increase team cohesion/bonding, which is critical for such a high-importance environment.
Overall, being an intern at Mercury Rising has been an invaluable experience for me to learn and grow from so many skilled and knowledgeable people that I never would have been able to meet otherwise, and the opportunities I have received here have really allowed me to boost my confidence. The Mercury Rising internship program is so much more immersive and genuinely useful to career development, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to gain experience and start their career in the pharmaceutical industry.”
Name: Kristine Ozola
Grad Start Date: June 2023
Qualifications: Level 6 Certificate in Pharmaceutical & Medical Device Operations, Level 6 Higher Certificate in Science in Process Technologies
Current Department: Quality Assurance
“The Graduate Program helped me build confidence in my technical skills through hands-on projects and strong mentorship. What stood out to me was the autonomy and responsibility I was trusted with from day one.
At Dunbar, I felt like a valued member of the team right from the start. I wasn’t treated like “just an intern.” Instead, I was encouraged to work independently, received meaningful feedback, and was appreciated for the work I contributed.
During the Summer 2023 GMP Internship, I gained in-depth exposure to core QA operations. I worked with Site-Wide SOPs, controlled Logbooks, Material Requirement Specifications (MRS), and User Requirement Specifications (URS). I supported the understanding and daily implementation of these documents, contributed to reviewing and updating controlled content, assisted with process maps, and helped prepare documentation for audits and inspections.I developed a strong understanding of regulatory compliance and the role of Quality Assurance in pharmaceutical operations. This internship gave me my first real insight into GMP, documentation control, and quality systems.
The program exceeded my expectations. I didn’t anticipate just how quickly I would feel integrated into the team or how significantly I would develop both personally and professionally. Now, as a full-time member of the QA department, I apply the foundations I built during the internship to more complex compliance projects and system improvements. Seeing how various graduate roles differ, I feel fortunate that the structured responsibility I was given at Dunbar early on helped accelerate my readiness and adaptability. It’s inspiring to see how each of us has grown along different paths, and I truly value the unique learning experience I had.
I would absolutely recommend the Dunbar Graduate Program to anyone interested in pharmaceuticals, especially those curious about GMP. Dunbar’s approach is not just your usual pharmaceutical path—it’s more dynamic, diverse, and offers exposure to the unusual and innovative side of the sector. It’s a rare chance to grow fast, learn deeply, and make a meaningful impact from day one.”
Name: Andrea Dunican
Grad Start Date: February 2025
Qualifications: BSc in Microbiology
Current Department: Quality Assurance
“As a Quality Assurance professional in Dunbar, I see myself as a guardian of compliance, integrity, and continuous improvement. My role bridges the gap between operations and regulatory expectations, ensuring that every process, product, and decision reflects our companies commitment to quality and patient safety.
I take pride in upholding GMP standards, supporting cross-functional teams, and driving a patient focused quality culture. I’m proud to be part of a team that not only prioritizes compliance and patient safety, but also fosters a genuinely positive and collaborative work environment. At Dunbar, there’s always room to grow, learn and make meaningful contributions in a fun and dynamic work environment, full of people who are passionate, supportive and committed to maintaining product and patient safety. I would recommend a graduate program at Dunbar to any recent graduates who are eager to learn about the pharmaceutical landscape and develop their future careers in a fast paced, fully immersive and collaborative environment.
QA is not just about preventing errors — it’s about enabling excellence. I’m proud to be part of a team that safeguards not only products, but also the trust placed in us by patients.”
Name: Lakshmi Nallani
Grad Start Date: February 2023
Qualifications: Msc in Pharmaceuticals Business and Technology
Current Department: Quality Control
“I Joined Dunbar Pharmaceuticals right after my post-graduation, I gained valuable experience in different departments Quality Assurance, validation, Process, warehouse from the very beginning, Dunbar Pharma is a great place to work and strives for a friendly, team-oriented environment, the entire team are always ready to help, every day is filled with new learning opportunities. I had been entrusted with opportunities and responsibilities early on, helping me accelerate my growth.“
Name: Hazel Browne
Grad Start Date: December 2023
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Current Department: Quality Control
“From my start date the Graduate Program has helped me develop my technical skills by assigning responsibilities and hands on training. The graduate program gives me the opportunity to work with other departments to grow my understanding of the industry and different processes. Working with a start-up like Dunbar Pharmaceuticals really allowed me to progress my career and skills while working with a friendly and experienced team.”