University of Massachusetts Amherst student Sophia Mola joined Anderson Biotests, LLC, an independent laboratory based in Bedford, as part of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center’s (MLSC) Internship Challenge. A Biology major with a Business minor, Sophia served as a Post Vasectomy Semen Analysis (PVSA) Technician and Laboratory Intern and quickly became a pivotal addition to the team through her strong work ethic, enthusiastic mindset, and passion for improving patients’ experiences. Her outstanding work earned her recognition as the runner-up for the MLSC’s inaugural Susan Windham-Bannister Life Sciences Intern Award.
At Anderson Biotests, Sophia supported both product line management and laboratory research operations, where she consistently excelled in her role. She played a key part in improving how the company organized and managed its product offerings, helping to increase efficiency and strengthen how services are delivered to customers. Her ability to translate technical concepts into actionable business strategies allowed her to contribute across multiple areas of the organization. The frameworks and processes Sophia established continue to guide the team’s work, representing a lasting impact that is still felt to this day.
Sophia’s leadership and problem-solving skills stood out throughout her internship. She took initiative in improving internal workflows, supporting customer communications, and assisting with research operations. Her adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges allowed her to step into greater responsibilities quickly, including serving as a shift leader within weeks of starting her internship.
In addition to her operational work, Sophia also served as a research assistant, organizing large tables of cell array data for publication in an upcoming paper. Her strong attention to detail, positive attitude, and impressive leadership skills created a lasting impact at Anderson Biotests, demonstrating the core values of the MLSC’s Internship Challenge.
The MLSC’s Internship Challenge connects students and recent graduates with paid internship opportunities at life sciences companies across the Commonwealth. The program provides meaningful, hands-on experiences that prepare the next generation of talent to thrive in Massachusetts’ world-leading life sciences ecosystem. Applications for the 2026-27 program round opened on Dec. 1, 2025. Click here to learn more.
