General Overview and Program Information

The Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center’s internship program is open to all students of accredited schools of public health. Highly motivated undergraduate students with a specific interest in public health and preventive medical research are also considered. The internship provides a unique experience where students can apply their skills and knowledge learned in the classroom and gain experience working on projects funded by the CDC, NIH, NCCAM, private foundations and industry. Interns will assist the PRC research staff in developing and implementing community based participatory research projects, endothelial function clinical trials, behavioral research studies focusing on obesity prevention, nutrition and smoking cessation and other project work as necessary. This program supports public health related internship experiences for masters degree-seeking students at accredited schools of public health to complete a research and practice-based internship program.

Who may apply to the Internship Program?

Students currently enrolled in master’s level training programs at accredited Schools of Public Health may apply for the internship program. Highly motivated undergraduate students specficially interested in public health and preventive medical research are also considered. All applicants must be U.S. citizens or hold visas permitting permanent residence in the U.S. to be eligible for the internship program.

When are the internships offered?

Duration and start date of the internship positions are flexible but start dates usually coincide with the beginning of summer or the start of the fall or spring semester. The actual start date of the internship and weekly schedule are mutually agreed upon by the student and internship mentor.

Where are the internships offered?

The internship opportunities are primarily located at the Yale Griffin Prevention Research Center in Derby, CT but may involve site visits.

Are these internships paid?

Funds to support an internship are project specific. Details regarding availability of funds and how the stipend is issued will be given to those students selected to participate in the program.

How do I apply to the Program?

Download the application form here and send the completed form to shelli.larovera@yalegriffinprc.org. For program information, internship descriptions and submission of completed applications please contact Michelle LaRovera at (203)-732-1265 ext. 210 or e-mail shelli.larovera@yalegriffinprc.org

How are interns selected?

All applications to the internship program undergo a two-phase review process. In the first stage, applications are reviewed by the Associate Director and Internship Coordinator on the following criteria: public health interest/background/experience, academic achievement/transcript, and letters of recommendation. Applicants approved by the initial review are required to come in for an interview with senior and project staff for the second phase. Relevant members of the research staff conduct a final assessment of the applications to decide which of the candidates applying for the individual projects are most suited for the internships.

Intern performance will be evaluated by senior PRC project staff responsible for direct student supervision. A comprehensive evaluation plan outlining the evaluation criteria will be shared with the student intern at the start of the internship, and will be coordinated with the student’s educational institution.

When should applicants expect to be notified?

The Yale Griffin Prevention Research Center notifies applicants of the results of the review approximately 4 weeks after application submission. Those chosen to participate in the internship program receive instructions on how to formalize starting and ending dates for the duration of the internship project.