Summer Internship – Policy and Research

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. 

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 May 26, 2026 through August 21, 2026 and the intern will work up to 37.5 hours per week for a 3-month term.  While in-person (Washington, DC) is preferred, this internship is also available as a remote 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 and familiarity with Endnote is a bonus.
• 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 matter.
• Strong desire to build relationships/collaboration skills.

Potential Salary

$25 to $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 

As the trade association for several leading biopharmaceutical companies, our workforce and culture should reflect the makeup of our clients and the benefactors of our efforts – patients. We at PhRMA are committed to building a culture where diverse people, ideas, and experiences are welcomed, included, and celebrated; where our employees can thrive as they bring their best authentic selves to work every day. 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 non-discrimination 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.