Summer Internship – Federal Advocacy

Overview

The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) is seeking an internship candidate to support Federal Government Advocacy initiatives, activities, and priorities at our Washington, DC Headquarters office. The intern will broadly assist members of the Federal Advocacy Department and work with multiple teams.

Department Description:  

PhRMA’s Federal Advocacy department represents member companies in the U.S. House and Senate, the White House and Executive Branch Departments, and Agencies. In collaboration with member company Washington staff, PhRMA’s Federal Advocacy team:

• Leads the development of advocacy strategy and tactics on issues critical to biopharmaceutical companies.
• Works at the federal level against harmful proposals and for policies that foster continued medical innovation and patient access to new medicines.

This is a paid position.  This internship will start on April 13, 2026 and the intern will work up to 37.5 hours per week, up to a 3-month term.

Responsibilities

The intern’s responsibilities may include: 

• Researching and tracking legislative and political activity
• Providing support for meetings, including gathering and assembling information
• Researching legislation, policy issues, and proposals
• Participating in writing and editing PowerPoint slide decks, talking points, policy papers, backgrounders, or other publications
• Performing other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in public policy, public health, political science, government affairs, legislative affairs, economics, or communications with an interest in health/life sciences policy and politics
• Understanding of Congressional committee procedures, protocols, and processes
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite          
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills
• Strong desire to build relationships/collaboration skills
• 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

Potential Salary

• $25 to $35 per hour based on the level of the 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.