Medical Writing Internship in Zimbabwe

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Gain experience in medical writing and contribute to the development of a nonprofit dedicated to public health in Africa.

If you’re planning on a career in medical writing, here’s an excellent opportunity to gain some practical experience in an inspiring setting. You’ll be part of Mutala Research, the nonprofit arm of the Charles River Medical Group. Based in Harare, this group of scientists work to improve public health in Africa through innovative research projects that lead to practical solutions.

As a nonprofit organization, Mutala depends on grant funding to do their work at the scale they aspire to. As a medical writing intern, you’ll identify suitable grant opportunities for various research programs, and put together grant applications. Moreover, you’ll help turn data from completed research projects into publishable content, so that Mutala can expand its reach and footprint within the relevant scientific communities.

This medical writing internship offers a rewarding experience for anyone keen to challenge themselves in a foreign setting. It’s also a great way to contribute to an important cause.

Learning outcomes of this research & development internship;

  • Practical experience in various aspects of medical writing
  • A strong portfolio of proposals and articles
  • Work experience in a nonprofit context
  • International work experience

ORGANIZATION

You’ll be joining Mutala Research; a nonprofit organization dedicated to public health research in Africa. It’s based in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital, and part of the Charles River Medical Group (CRMG), a research organization established to diversify clinical trials and expand clinical research capabilities throughout the African continent. They do this by partnering with government, industry and nonprofit organizations to conduct clinical studies that advance science and improve human health – globally, but specifically focused on Africa.

As the nonprofit research component of CRMG, Mutala Research focuses on public health and implementation science research, run by experienced leaders in these areas. Recent research was focused on issues such as vaccine effectiveness, vaccine hesitancy, and adolescent HIV treatment. While the organization is still in its startup phase, it’s looking to expand its capabilities, and interns can play a vital part in this. Mutala works from laboratories in Zimbabwe’s capital Harare.

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

Responsibilities

As a medical writing intern, your tasks will include;

  • Doing grant research; finding suitable opportunities
  • Writing grant applications and other funding proposals
  • Writing articles about completed research projects that will be suitable for publication

Requirements

  • Relevant academic background
  • Strong and persuasive writing skills
  • Understanding of medical terminology
  • A flexible approach to work
  • A willingness to adapt to a foreign work environment
  • A passion for the work Mutala does

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

You’ll stay at Small World Lodge, a friendly and relaxed accommodation in a pleasant Harare neighborhood. The lodge has a range of different rooms and a bunch of communal areas, including a bar, a restaurant, and a garden with a swimming pool. You’ll have wifi and a laundry service you can make use of, and the lodge staff will always be happy to help you arrange transport and local outings. It’s a comfortable home away from home.

Safety & Support

Safety & Support

Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before yor internship and to get all the recommended vaccines, malaria profylaxis, and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Mosquito nets are not provided, but you are welcome to bring one. There are stands available to hang them.

Communication

Communication

There is a Wifi connection at your accommodation, or you can opt to buy a local SIM card.

Meals

Meals

Kitchen facilities are available at your accommodation or you can choose to order meals the on-site restaurant for a low price.

Location details

Location details

You’ll get the opportunity to live and work in the unique capital city of Harare. The jacaranda-filled wide streets create a mesmerizing environment to explore the various museums, craft markets, restaurants, and bars. Although lively, Harare is considered to be more laid-back than other big African cities which makes it a great internship destination, as you’ll also have access to plenty of safari trip options.

DATES & RATES

Fee Breakdown

Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.

What you’ll pay (2023 rates)

12 weeks USD 1,908

16 weeks USD 2,312

20 weeks USD 2,715

26 weeks USD 3,422

Inclusions

  • Accommodation based on a dorm room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and additional costs.
  • Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
  • Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
  • An orientation program with your supervisor.
  • Regular check ins during your internship with you and your supervisor.
  • Your own account on a career development platform that offers content and courses focused on exploring different career opportunities
  • Troubleshooting if needed
  • A reference letter at the end of your internship
  • Airport transfers
  • Support on the ground

Exclusions

  • Flights
  • Visa, medical and travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
  • Meals: if you are interested to add on a meal package, please contact us.
  • Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
  • Costs for additional excursions or activities
SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDING

FAQs

Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.

What can I expect from a NGO internship in South Africa?

During your internship in South Africa you can expect to meet people from around the world, as well as indulging yourself into the culture of this beautiful country! If you want to know more about what to expect, make sure to check out our top 7 reasons for an internship in Cape Town.

Will I have time to explore South Africa during my internship?

Yes! We partner with various activity organizers that can offer discounts exclusive to Roots Interns, for example, a road trip through the Garden Route and bungee jumping off the world’s largest natural bungee. You may also explore the country on your own and we are happy to give recommendations.

Am I able to do an internship while on a study program in Cape Town?

Yes! You are able to do a part-time internship with certain organizations so that you can continue your studies, while also gaining valuable work experience.

Will I receive a stipend of any kind during my internship with Roots?

Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, your internship will be unpaid, but there are many ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that are invaluable!

QUICK FACTS

LOCATION: Harare, Zimbabwe
PROGRAM FOCUS: Public Health NGO
TASK FOCUS: Grant writing, Report writing, Writing
LENGTH: Min. 12 Weeks
COST: From USD 1,908

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Gain a wealth of experience in medical writing and end up with a strong portfolio of applications and articles
  • Contribute to the development of a nonprofit dedicated to public health in Africa
  • Get insights into the day to day running of a health-focused nonprofit organization
  • Learn from experts in your field
  • Boost your resume with international work experience
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW

HOW TO APPLY

If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:

APPLY

Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us

SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR

We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.

INTERNSHIP MATCHING

If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.

PAYMENT

If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.

CONFIRMATION

Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.

NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?

Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!

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