Non-Student Short-Term Casual

Position Summary

The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (HICCC) Communications Office leads the full spectrum of communications for the center, including editorial content (newsroom and magazine), digital channels (website and social media), and internal and external communications such as newsletters, events, and media relations. The office plays a central role in translating complex cancer research and clinical advances into clear, compelling content for a wide range of audiences, including patients, caregivers, researchers, and the broader public.

In partnership with the Columbia Journalism School, HICCC is offering a 12-week, part-time (20 hours per week) summer internship designed to provide hands-on experience in science communication within an academic medical and nonprofit setting. This program is intended for students interested in developing skills in science writing, editorial strategy, and mission-driven storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Assist with developing familiarity with a range of editorial formats, including research-focused science writing, patient and community stories, op-eds, and long-form feature pieces.
• Assist with participating in weekly editorial and planning meetings to gain insight into content development, refinement, and distribution across multiple channels.
• Assist with researching, pitching, and developing original story ideas aligned with HICCC?s editorial priorities and institutional voice.
• Assist with writing and producing at least two publishable pieces for the HICCC newsroom or magazine, with opportunities to focus on scientific, clinical, or community-driven narratives.
• Assist with conducting and participating in interviews with researchers, clinicians, trainees, and community members.
• Assist with contributing to the drafting and refinement of external media pitches and press materials.
• Assist with supporting background research, fact-checking, and source coordination for ongoing editorial projects.

Additional Opportunities

Depending on interest and experience, the intern may also have opportunities to:

• Assist with designing and leading a training session or workshop for HICCC trainees on science writing, storytelling, and/or careers in journalism and communications.
• Assist with gaining exposure to communications strategy, including campaign planning, audience segmentation, and content performance analysis.
• Assist with observing and supporting event-related communications, including program development and post-event storytelling.
• Assist with contributing to content planning tied to awareness campaigns, institutional initiatives, or major scientific meetings.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned/requested.

This internship offers a unique opportunity to build a portfolio of published work while gaining insight into the role of communications within a leading academic cancer center with a scientific focus. Interns will leave the program with a deeper understanding of how complex scientific and clinical concepts can be translated into accessible, impactful narratives.

Minimum Qualifications

• Enrollment in college or completion of a college degree required.