An elite opportunity at the intersection of science and national policy is now open! The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Science Policy (OSP) is accepting applications for its highly selective 2026 Summer Internship Program. With only two positions available nationwide, this 8–12 week program offers unparalleled, hands-on experience in shaping U.S. biomedical science policy. If you are a student passionate about translating research into real-world impact, this is a rare launchpad into science governance. The application deadline is February 27, 2026.
NIH Summer Internship 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this prestigious policy internship:
- Host Organization: National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Office of Science Policy (OSP)
- Internship Type: Summer Policy Internship
- Duration: 8–12 weeks (Starting May/June 2026)
- Number of Positions: Only 2 Interns (1 per division)
- Financial Support: Paid Stipend (based on education level)
- Target Group: Undergraduate, Graduate & Professional Students
- Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
About the NIH OSP Summer Internship
The NIH Office of Science Policy (OSP) is where groundbreaking biomedical research meets national strategy. This internship is not a typical lab placement; it is an immersive dive into the policymaking ecosystem that determines the direction of U.S. health and science priorities.
As one of only two interns selected, you will work directly alongside top policy experts, contributing to high-impact projects that influence funding, innovation, and public health guidelines. This is a unique mentorship-driven experience designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders who can bridge the gap between scientific discovery and societal application.
Internship Positions & Focus Areas
Applicants must apply for one specific division. Choose the track that best aligns with your interests:
- Science Policy Coordination, Collaboration, and Reporting Division:
- Focus: Developing high-impact policy documents, reports, and partnership resources.
- Ideal for: Students interested in science communication, policy analysis, and inter-agency collaboration.
- Innovation Policy Division:
- Focus: Shaping strategies for biomedical innovation, patient access to technologies, and research implementation.
- Ideal for: Students passionate about biotechnology, health equity, intellectual property, and the translation of research into practice.
Internship Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a currently enrolled undergraduate, graduate, or professional student.
- Demonstrate a strong, genuine interest in science policy, innovation, or biomedical research strategy.
- Be able to commit to the full 8–12 week internship period starting in May or June 2026.
- Be able to successfully pass a federal background check (required for NIH system access).
- Apply for only one of the two available internship divisions.
Internship Benefits & Professional Gains
- Competitive Stipend: A paid stipend commensurate with your education level.
- Direct Mentorship: Work side-by-side with senior NIH policy leaders and experts.
- Meaningful Project Work: Contribute to real policy digests, strategy documents, and initiative development that support the NIH mission.
- Career Launchpad: Exceptional preparation for future roles in science policy, government fellowships (e.g., AAAS, Presidential Management Fellows), graduate school, and leadership in the biomedical enterprise.
- Network Access: Join the influential network of NIH and federal science policy professionals.
How to Apply for the NIH OSP Internship (Step-by-Step)
Given the extreme selectivity, a flawless and targeted application is essential.
- Choose Your Division: Carefully review the two division descriptions and select the one that best matches your academic background and career aspirations.
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the NIH OSP Summer Internship Application Page.
- Prepare a Targeted Application: Your application must powerfully convey your specific interest in your chosen division’s work. Go beyond a general interest in “science.”
- Required Materials: Typically includes a resume/CV, academic transcripts, a compelling personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the last minute. Ensure your application is complete and submitted by February 27, 2026.
🔥 Pro Tip: In your personal statement, demonstrate that you understand what science policy is. Reference specific NIH initiatives, OSP reports, or current policy debates. Articulate a clear connection between your past experiences (research, coursework, advocacy) and the specific work of the division you are applying to. Show them you are already thinking like a policy professional.
Application Deadline
The final deadline to submit your application for this elite opportunity is:
📅 February 27, 2026.
Official Website
For the most detailed information, application instructions, and division specifics:
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL NIH OSP SUMMER INTERNSHIP PAGE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this a laboratory research internship?
A: No. This is a science policy internship. The work is focused on analysis, writing, strategy, and collaboration to inform decision-making, not on conducting bench research in a lab.
Q2: Are international students eligible to apply?
A: The announcement does not explicitly restrict applications based on citizenship. However, the ability to pass a federal background check and legally work in the U.S. for the internship period is a requirement. International students should confirm their visa/work authorization status.
Q3: What makes a strong applicant?
A: Beyond excellent academics, strong candidates demonstrate a deep, informed interest in policy, clear written and analytical skills, relevant experience (e.g., in science communication, advocacy, or research administration), and a specific passion for the mission of their chosen OSP division.
Q4: How competitive is the selection?
A: This is one of the most competitive internships in science policy. With only two positions available nationally and applicants from top universities worldwide, the selection process is extremely rigorous.
Q5: Can I apply to both divisions?
A: No. The instructions state you must choose only one division to apply for. Applying to both may disqualify your application.
