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Summer Pharmaceutical Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Campus - CTDP Graduate Intern

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Previous laboratory or pharmaceutical research experience in * Clinical Trial Planning and Design ... Lilly arranges various intern summer activities including sporting events, dinners, lunch and ...

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Summer Pharmaceutical Research information

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$2.1K

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How much do summer pharmaceutical research jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average monthly pay for summer pharmaceutical research in the United States is $6,439.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,416.67 and $7,666.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer pharmaceutical research position?

A summer pharmaceutical research position is a temporary role, usually lasting 8-12 weeks, where students or recent graduates work with scientists and researchers in the pharmaceutical industry or academia. Participants assist with laboratory experiments, data analysis, and learn about drug development processes. These positions provide hands-on experience, exposure to cutting-edge research, and opportunities to network with professionals in the field. They are valuable for those considering careers in pharmaceutical sciences or related areas.

What types of projects or responsibilities can I expect in a summer pharmaceutical research role?

In a Summer Pharmaceutical Research position, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as assisting with laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and supporting ongoing research projects under the supervision of experienced scientists. You may also participate in group meetings, contribute to literature reviews, and help maintain lab equipment. This role often involves close collaboration with other interns, researchers, and sometimes cross-functional teams like quality assurance or regulatory affairs. The experience is designed to provide a hands-on understanding of pharmaceutical research processes while building foundational skills for future careers in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a summer pharmaceutical research position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Pharmaceutical Research role, you need a solid grounding in biology, chemistry, or related sciences, often supported by ongoing undergraduate or graduate coursework. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as Excel, GraphPad Prism), and good laboratory practice (GLP) standards is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in fast-paced research environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate, reliable results and contributing meaningfully to pharmaceutical discovery or development projects.

What is the difference between Summer Pharmaceutical Research vs Summer Pharmacology Intern?

AspectSummer Pharmaceutical ResearchSummer Pharmacology Intern
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or graduate in pharmacy, chemistry, or related fieldSimilar educational background, often with coursework in pharmacology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, clinical trial settingsLaboratories, research centers, academic institutions
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutionsAcademic labs, pharmaceutical companies, research organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in pharma during summerInternship opportunities in pharmacology during summer

Summer Pharmaceutical Research involves hands-on research projects in pharmaceutical labs, focusing on drug development and testing. Summer Pharmacology Internships typically involve assisting in pharmacological studies, gaining practical experience in drug effects and mechanisms. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are found in similar environments, but they differ mainly in focus: research projects versus pharmacology-specific tasks.

How do you get into summer pharmaceutical research?

To get into summer pharmaceutical research, students typically pursue relevant coursework in chemistry, biology, or pharmacology and gain laboratory experience through internships or research programs. Applying to university-sponsored research programs, demonstrating strong academic performance, and developing skills in data analysis and laboratory techniques can improve chances of acceptance.

How hard is it to get into a summer pharmaceutical research program?

Getting into a summer pharmaceutical research program is competitive, often requiring strong academic performance in science and research-related coursework, relevant laboratory experience, and good recommendations. Applicants typically need to demonstrate interest in pharmaceuticals and may be asked to submit a personal statement or interview. Preparation and a solid background in science increase chances of acceptance.

What cities are hiring for Summer Pharmaceutical Research jobs?

Cities with the most Summer Pharmaceutical Research job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmaceutical Research jobs?

The most popular types of Pharmaceutical Research jobs are:

What states have the most Summer Pharmaceutical Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Summer Pharmaceutical Research jobs include:

Lilly Research Laboratories TDA - 2027 Summer Doctoral Internship

Eli Lilly and Company

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Eli Lilly and Company rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Lilly, the work is demanding because patients are waiting. We unite caring with discovery to help make life better for people around the world, knowing that every decision, every detail, and every day matters. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, our over 50,000 employees around the globe take on complex challenges to discover and deliver life-changing medicines, strengthen how health is understood and managed, and support the communities we serve. This is hard, urgent, selfless work-but it's work worth doing. If you're driven by purpose and ready to bring your best to work that truly matters for patients, we invite you to join us.
Organization Overview
At Lilly, the work is demanding because patients are waiting. We unite caring with discovery to help make life better for people around the world, knowing that every decision, every detail, and every day matters. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, our over 50,000 employees around the globe take on complex challenges to discover and deliver life-changing medicines, strengthen how health is understood and managed, and support the communities we serve. This is hard, urgent, selfless work-but it's work worth doing. If you're driven by purpose and ready to bring your best to work that truly matters for patients, we invite you to join us.
Functional Overview & Responsibilities
TDA Intern Overview:
Lilly's internship program provides science students the unique opportunity to work in the Drug Discovery or Development areas of a world-class pharmaceutical company. Our internship program helps us identify future technical talent and leaders and allows interns to gain technical expertise and understanding of the drug development process, experience our culture and see the variety of career paths available at Lilly. This internship will take place during the Summer of 2027 with start dates in May and June 2027.
We are looking for students majoring in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, all fields of engineering, pharmaceutics, or a related discipline to join our team of scientists. As part of Lilly's commitment to innovation, interns will have the opportunity to build fluency with AI tools used across the business. We expect interns to approach these tools with curiosity, apply critical thinking to AI-assisted work, and always prioritize accuracy, confidentiality, and ethical standards in how they use them. As an intern you will have an opportunity to diversify your skillset while contributing to cutting edge research.
Your work or project may include but are not limited to the following:
  • AI/ML
  • Analytical development
  • Bioassay development
  • Biological testing of compounds
  • Organic and Peptide synthesis
  • Chemical Modality
  • Computational biology
  • Computational chemistry
  • Delivery devices
  • Molecular biology
  • Protein expression
  • Purification, characterization, analytical methods, and formulation
  • Flow chemistry
  • Drug product design and performance

The internship positions are located at our corporate headquarters in Indianapolis, IN and may include other locations such as Boston, MA; San Diego, CA; Pasadena, CA, and South San Francisco, CA. Each intern will be assigned a project providing the opportunity to actively contribute to the Discovery or Development organization, build a more comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical industry, and the role Eli Lilly and Company scientists play in delivering innovative medicines to patients.
Basic Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Enrolled in a Ph.D. or PharmD program with a concentration in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.

Additional Functional Job Skills & Preference
  • Team player with excellent communication skills.
  • Previous laboratory or pharmaceutical research experience in
    • AI/ML
    • Analytical development
    • Bioassay development
    • Biological testing of compounds
    • Organic and Peptide synthesis
    • Chemical Modality
    • Computational biology
    • Computational chemistry
    • Delivery devices
    • Molecular biology
    • Protein expression
    • Purification, characterization, analytical methods, and formulation
    • Flow chemistry
    • Drug product design and performance
  • Prior experience using AI tools (e.g., generative AI platforms, automation tools, or AI-assisted research/analytics tools) in an academic, project, or work setting.

Additional Information
All interns will be considered for full-time positions based on their internship performance
  • Lilly arranges various intern activities including sporting events, dinners, lunch and learns, volunteer activities etc. to provide opportunities for socializing, professional development, and learning more about Lilly.
  • Interns will receive 1 week of paid time off during the Lilly summer shut-down (July 5th - July 9th, 2027)
  • 1:1 mentoring from an experienced professional in the function
  • Interns will receive a competitive salary and free parking at their work site, as well as access to Lilly's LIFE fitness center, bike garage, and many other discounts
  • If the intern's job position requires a move from another location, Lilly will provide subsidized housing

Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form (https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation) for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.
Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.
Our employee resource groups (ERGs) offer strong support networks for their members and are open to all employees. Our current groups include: Africa, Middle East, Central Asia (AMECA), Black Employees at Lilly (BE@Lilly), Chinese Culture Network (CCN), EnAble, Evolve, Lilly Indian Network (LIN), Organization of Latinx at Lilly (OLA), Pride (LGBTQ+ Allies), Veterans Leadership Network (VLN) and Women's Initiative for Leading at Lilly (WILL).
Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is
$43,000 - $123,200
Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.
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About Eli Lilly

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Eli Lilly, based in Indianapolis, IN, US, is one of the pioneers in the pharmaceutical industry with a rich history dating back to 1876. This global pharmaceutical company focuses on discovering, developing, manufacturing and selling pharmaceutical products in approximately 120 countries. The company's product categories include endocrinology, oncology, cardiovascular, neuroscience, and immunology. Having invested over $9 billion in research and development in the past decade, Eli Lilly is also committed to creating high-quality medicines that meet real needs. As a recipient of several awards and recognitions, Eli Lilly is known for its focus on life-saving research and drug development. Their mission is to make medicines that help people live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

1876