Intern, Media Relations

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists – even stretching into film and media production.  Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between.  The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation.  As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Summary:
As the Intern, Media Relations, you will support a portfolio of work that encompasses key Institute-wide priorities set by HHMI’s senior leadership. To be successful, you will need to have strong writing skills, research skills, adaptability, and curiosity to explore new fields of knowledge. You should be proactive in your approach to work, able to handle confidential information with discretion, diplomacy, and professionalism, and enthusiastic about gaining experience and growing as a communicator.

This is a full-time (40 hours/week) hybrid internship that will report to our Headquarters office in Chevy Chase, MD three days per week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays), and work remotely two days per week (Mondays and Fridays).
 

Please note: If selected for an opportunity, interns are responsible for securing their own housing for the duration of the internship (12 weeks during the summer months).

What we provide:

• Working with a team that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment where all members of the team help each other.
• Direct, robust mentorship from the Director, Leadership Communications and External Relations as well as the Media Relations Manager.
• Opportunities to develop, apply, and hone your skills in the areas of communication, writing, research, and data analysis.
• Professional development opportunities and being part of an engaging intern cohort.
• This position will be compensated at a rate of $17.65-$20.00/hour.

What you’ll do:

• Routinely monitor a wide range of national and local news sources for updates on federal policy, US science, higher education, AI, and other topics relevant to HHMI’s interests.
• Support the Media Relations Manager in assembling and distributing daily news briefing to HHMI leadership team.
• Supporting and tracking media mentions.
• Maintaining and curating lists of key stakeholders in HHMI’s media monitoring platforms.
• Shadow the Media Relations Manager and learn how to respond to incoming media requests.
• Learn how to translate and express ideas for communication with various audiences.
• Collaborate with HHMI’s Leadership Communications Manager and Government Relations Manager on other communications projects.

What you bring:

• Current enrollment in a bachelor’s degree program majoring in communications, English, journalism, social sciences, political science, or a related area of study is required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong grasp of media literacy.
• Any experience with SharePoint or Cision would be a plus.
• Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem-solving.
• Ability to conduct academic research and navigate databases.
• Strong organizational skills, teamwork skills, and time management skills.
• Attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy.

How to Apply:

To apply for the internship, please submit the following materials:

• a resume or curriculum vitae (CV), including relevant courses
• the name and contact information of two references (e.g., professor, advisor, supervisor) who can speak to your skills related to this position. These references will not be contacted until after the interview process.

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; however, it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1
 

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.