The Graduate’s Guide to Internships & Early Career Programs in the Life Sciences

Breaking into the life sciences industry can be both exciting and challenging. As a university student or upcoming graduate, exploring internships and early career programs is one of the best ways to build technical expertise, grow your professional network and clarify your career direction. 

Why Internships Matter

Internships bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. They offer hands-on experience, making your academic knowledge come alive professionally. Here are some types of internships to consider:

• Research Internships

Ideal for those interested in experimental methodologies and laboratory work, often found in academic settings or pharmaceutical companies.

• Biotech Internships

Focused on product development, genetic engineering and bioinformatics, commonly offered by start-ups.

• Clinical Trial Internships

Involve handling patient data and supporting clinical trials.

• Regulatory Affairs Internships

Provide insights into drug approval standards and regulatory processes.

• Medical Writing Internships

Centered on crafting scientific publications and technical reports. 

Early Career Programs

Top life sciences companies offer structured programs to help young professionals launch their careers. These programs combine mentorship, hands-on experience and professional development:

• Pfizer’s Breakthrough Fellowship Program

A two-year pathway combining summer internships, full-time work and graduate education funding. It offers leadership training and industry experience.

• Genentech’s Rotational Programs

Designed to provide exposure to various functions such as R&D, manufacturing and commercial operations, with opportunities to work on impactful projects.

• Amgen’s Early Career Professional Program

Encourages cross-functional collaboration in R&D, operations and business strategy, alongside mentorship opportunities.

• Novartis’ Scientific Internships

Short-term internships focusing on pharmaceutical science, offering real-world experience in drug discovery, data analysis and clinical trial management. 

How to Land an Internship

Landing an internship requires careful and strategic preparation. To position yourself for success, start your search as early as your sophomore year, as many programs have early deadlines. Tailor your application materials, such as your resume and cover letter, to emphasize relevant coursework, lab experience and technical skills.

Networking plays a crucial role, so attend career fairs, alum events and conferences to connect with professionals in the industry. Utilize LinkedIn to reach out to mentors and industry insiders for advice and guidance. Additionally, seek support from faculty members by requesting recommendations and asking about potential opportunities. To maximize your chances, cast a wide net by applying to various organizations, including multinational companies, start-ups and academic institutions. 

Maximizing Your Experience

Securing an internship is just the beginning; making the most of the experience is key to long-term success. Start by setting clear goals for what you want to achieve and communicating these objectives to your manager to ensure alignment. Proactivity is essential—ask questions, seek feedback and take on challenging tasks to demonstrate your enthusiasm and initiative.

Building connections within the organization is also crucial; attend events and engage with colleagues and mentors to expand your network. Keep a detailed record of your work, including projects, processes and outcomes, to showcase your contributions in future applications. Lastly, regularly seek feedback and constructive criticism to improve your performance and further develop your skills. 

Long-Term Impact

Internships and early career programs provide invaluable experiences that help you chart a clear path in the life sciences industry. Investing in these opportunities gives you the skills, knowledge and connections needed to thrive in this dynamic field.

Read more articles for the ConnectComm Community here.

This article was originally published on diversitycomm.net.