Summer Student Public Affairs

Summary

Location:

Toronto,

From May 4 to August 28, 2026 - 17 weeks

Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role; please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

This job posting is not for an existing position.

• Conduct research and analysis on public policy, political, and healthcare system issues relevant to Public Affairs and Government Relations priorities.
• Support stakeholder mapping and landscape analysis to help identify key government, policy, and ecosystem audiences and engagement opportunities.
• Assist in the preparation of written materials and presentations for internal and external audiences, including briefings and background documents.
• Help track and summarize relevant political, policy, and regulatory developments impacting the organization.
• Provide general support to the Public Affairs team to improve coordination, organization, and overall effectiveness of the team both internally and externally.

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in political science, public affairs, public policy, communications, international relations, economics, business, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex political, policy, and economic information into clear, practical insights.
• Demonstrated interest in Canadian politics, public policy, and the healthcare or life sciences ecosystem.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft briefing notes, summaries, and internal materials with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast paced, hybrid team environment; proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort working with shared digital tools.
• Bilingualism in English and French (spoken and written) is preferred; understanding of the pharmaceutical industry is considered an asset.

Annual base salary: 48,750 or 58,500

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse team’s representatives of the patients and communities we serve.

Helping people with disease and their families takes more than innovative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Ready to create a brighter future together?

Learn about all the ways we’ll help you thrive personally and professionally.

Read our handbook (PDF 30 MB)