Spring Internship – Policy and Research

Overview

PhRMA is seeking an internship candidate to support department initiatives, activities and priorities. The Intern will assist members of the Policy and Research department, while collaborating with multiple teams across PhRMA.

Department Description

The primary objective of the Policy and Research Department is to develop and disseminate public policy positions and analysis that can be used effectively in PhRMA-wide education, legislative, regulatory, and communication efforts.

• Conceptualizing and managing both in-house and external research efforts to support advocacy and communications priorities.
• Developing policy proposals, strategies and analysis as part of PhRMA’s efforts to drive and reframe the policy debate on terms favorable to access and innovation.
• Leading regulatory efforts at HHS/CMS.

The intern will gain experience in a wide range of issues, including health policy, public health, research and development, healthcare economics, Medicare, Medicaid, State and Federal issues, innovative medicines, and regulatory and legislative processes. This is a paid position running from January 19, 2027 to April 16, 2027, up to 25 hours per week for a 3-month term. The internship is available as an in-person (Washington, DC), remote, or hybrid opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Collecting, tracking, analyzing and/or organizing primary research related to the healthcare industry and health policy.
• Researching legislation, policy issues, and proposals.
• Participating in drafting, writing, editing, and managing talking points, slide decks, reports, or backgrounders.
• Reading, summarizing, and managing primary literature and research across a wide variety of topics.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Current graduate student in public policy, public health, political science, government affairs, legislative affairs, economics, law or communications with an interest in health/life sciences policy, research, and politics.
• Preferred candidates will have completed at least one year of their graduate degree program.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Attention to detail and ability to be consistent with details throughout tasks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to strategically and creatively process information.
• Curiosity to stay abreast of current industry trends.
• Ability to manage and complete projects end-to-end in a timely manner.
• Strong desire to build relationships/collaboration skills.