Research Internship - Summer 2010

UAEM is seeking an intern to assist with research and other duties as needed during the summer of 2010.  The intern will assist with research on the relationships between universities and the pharmaceutical industry, institutional conflicts of interest, and industry funding of universities.  Additionally the intern will perform research related to the Bayh-Dole Act and Bayh-Dole-like legislation in developing nations. 

Responsibilities: The intern will primarily focus on providing research assistance regarding Bayh-Dole (and Bayh-Dole analogues) and transparency.  Specific expected assignments are detailed below: 

Bayh-Dole:

• Research on best practices to achieve better access to federally-funded research, promote simultaneous innovation and access, and encourage increased research on neglected diseases
• Research on the successes and failures of Bayh-Dole and Bayh-Dole-like legislation
• Analysis of prospective models to improve public health through better management of public funded research, including the successes and failings of “alternative” technology transfer
• Evaluation of key components of model legislation addressing the pitfalls of Bayh-Dole for developing nations.

Transparency

• Research on existing conflicts of interests technology transfer offices and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry and the impact of conflicts of interest on independent policy making.  Efforts will require research into SEC filings, joint university-industry statements and backgrounds of senior officials in technology transfer offices. 
• Research on lobbying efforts by universities as it relates to access to medicines
• Assistance with the compilation of systematic catalog of university-industry licensing deals

In addition, the intern should expect to assist with administrative duties, organizational development and other projects as needed in accordance with any funding received by your institution.  

Qualifications: Applicants must possess a strong ability to collect, analyze and leverage data to structure and create the analyses required.  Applicants should have strong research and writing skills and be willing to cite-check footnotes.  The intern must be proficient in standard office applications (including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint). Strong preference will be given to those who can demonstrate a commitment to UAEM’s missions and goals and/or serving the public interest.   

Term: 8 week minimum commitment, with preference given to those who can commit for 10 weeks or longer.  Flexible start/end dates.  There is also a preference for a full time intern, but part time applications will also be considered. 

Compensation: This position is unfunded.  Applicants should make every attempt to secure their own funding, if necessary. 

Location: Preference for the California Bay Area, though work can be done remotely. 

Application: Please send cover letter, resume and brief writing sample (3-5 pages) by e-mail to: hiring@essentialmedicine.org  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  We hope to make a decision no later than March 31, 2010.