Spring Internship – Policy and Research

Overview

Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (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. More specifically, the department is responsible for: 

• 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 effort at HHS/CMS.

The intern will gain experience in a wide range of issues. Examples include 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.  This internship will start on January 20, 2026 and the intern will work up to 25 hours per week for a 3-month term.  The internship is available as an in-person (Washington, DC), remote, or hybrid internship opportunity. 

Responsibilities

The Intern’s responsibilities may include:

• 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 undergraduate or 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.

Potential Salary

• $25 - $35 per hour based on the level of degree program.

Who we are  
 The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) represents the country’s leading innovative biopharmaceutical research companies, which are laser focused on developing innovative medicines that transform lives and create a healthier world. Together, we are fighting for solutions to ensure patients can access and afford medicines that prevent, treat and cure disease. Over the last decade, PhRMA member companies have invested more than $850 billion in the search for new treatments and cures, and they support nearly five million jobs in the United States.  

Connect with PhRMA
For information on how innovative medicines save lives, please visit:
www.PhRMA.org
www.Innovation.org
www.MAT.org
www.Facebook.com/PhRMA
www.Twitter.com/PhRMA    

Equal Opportunity Employer 

PhRMA provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, genetic information, disability, matriculation, political affiliation or veteran status in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. 

The job description contains an overview of the activities and duties for this role. Responsibilities may change and new ones may be assigned at any time.