Spring Internship – Public Affairs

Overview

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

Department Description:

PhRMA's Public Affairs department is responsible for issues management and integrated campaigns that advance the biopharmaceutical industry and support advocacy efforts on federal, state and international public policy issues. The intern will have the opportunity to work on public affairs and strategic communications efforts related to health care, prescription drug costs, the pharmaceutical supply chain, research and development and others.

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.

Responsibilities

The intern's responsibilities may include:

• Drafting messaging and communications materials, including blog posts and other digital promotional pieces, op-eds, press releases, talking points, presentations and other materials.
• Conducting background research and monitoring media coverage of industry and relevant policy issues.
• Supporting the ongoing development and execution of paid media campaigns.
• Drafting weekly updates, reports, correspondence and slide decks.
• Providing support for meetings, including gathering and assembling information.
• Attending internal meetings, coordinating with staff to develop agendas and ensuring proper follow-up and output, including meeting summaries.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in Communications, Public Affairs, Political Communication, Public Health or related field with an interest in health/life sciences policy and politics.
• Proficiency 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 AI and media industry trends.
• Ability to manage and complete projects end to end in a timely manner.

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:

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.