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.”

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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.

Dunbar Pharma

Our Programs

At this time, Dunbar Pharma is not offering internship or graduate programme positions.

If you would like to stay informed about future opportunities and company news, please follow Dunbar Pharma on LinkedIn.

Dunbar Pharma LinkedIn icon linking to the LinkedIn page of the Irish cannabinoid GMP API manufacturer Dunbar Pharma.

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.

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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.

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Departments

GMP Production & Process Scientist

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.

Research & Development

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.

Quality Assurance

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.

Quality Control

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.

Finance, Business, & Accounting

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.

Engineering & Facilities Management

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.

Artwork & Graphic Design

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.

Other

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

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.

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. 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.”

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!“

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.

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. 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.

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.”

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.“

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.”

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.”