INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Graph Neural Network Influenza Modeling Intern

CompanyBoston Public Health Commission
LocationBoston
Work ModeOn Site
PostedAugust 11, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will develop and evaluate machine learning models using Graph Neural Networks to improve seasonal influenza forecasting. They will also build reproducible analytical workflows and document methodologies to support public health staff.
Internship Type
internship
Company Size
897
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Welcome! We’re Boston’s public health department. We work in partnership with communities to protect and promote the health and well-being of all Boston residents, especially those impacted by racism and systemic inequities. We envision a thriving Boston where all residents live healthy, fulfilling lives free of racism, poverty, violence, and other systems of oppression. Equity. Collaboration. Anti-Racism. People-Centered. Transparency. These values drive our public health work and shape how we support and empower our employees every day. Through our policies, programs, and services, we strive to eliminate health disparities based on race, ethnicity, income, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and neighborhood. We support residents and families with over 40 programs and services that meet community needs across our neighborhoods and lifespan, including accessible community-based health and social services; community engagement and advocacy; health-promoting policies and regulations; disease and injury prevention; emergency services; and health promotion and education services. We are equally committed to investing in our people by fostering an inclusive and empowering work environment where everyone can grow, contribute and make an impact. As the nation's oldest health department, with roots dating back to 1799, our work has evolved from the needs of then to the needs of now. We provide and support accessible, high-quality community-based health services and programming, education and resources to build a healthy Boston. We are a group of dedicated neighbors and community members ready to meet the moment and deliver a safer, healthier Boston for our residents. Join us and grow your career in a workplace that values innovation, equity, and professional development. Explore career opportunities at careers.bphc.org.
About the Role

The Graph Neural Network (GNN) Influenza Modeling Intern will support the development and evaluation of machine learning models to improve seasonal influenza forecasting. The intern will analyze historical and current influenza surveillance data, develop and validate forecasting models using Graph Neural Networks, and assess how integrating multiple public health data sources—including emergency department visits, hospitalizations, laboratory testing, immunizations, and wastewater surveillance—affects predictive accuracy. The intern will also build reproducible R and/or Python workflows, support model visualization and deployment, and document processes to ensure long-term sustainability of the forecasting model.

Qualifications

Learning Objectives

  • Gain experience with influenza surveillance systems and public health data sources.
  • Learn and compare traditional forecasting methods with machine learning and Graph Neural Network approaches.
  • Develop and evaluate forecasting models using R and/or Python.
  • Build reproducible analytical workflows and visualizations for public health applications.
  • Document methodologies and support knowledge transfer to BPHC staff.
Key Skills
Graph Neural NetworksMachine LearningPythonRData AnalysisPredictive ModelingInfluenza SurveillancePublic Health DataStatistical ModelingData VisualizationWorkflow AutomationModel Deployment
Categories
Data & AnalyticsScience & ResearchHealthcareTechnologyGovernment & Public Sector