Candidates must have secure home internet access, a hotspot, or VPN and the ability to work remotely while collaborating with program staff at the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
Join the Office of Health Improvement – Division of Emerging Health Issues at the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This internship supports public health communication efforts focused on violence and injury prevention. The selected intern will help translate complex data into clear, accessible materials for diverse audiences, including infographics, fact sheets, social media content, and other outreach tools that highlight key trends and prevention strategies.
The role involves reviewing data summaries, collaborating with analysts to ensure accuracy, and contributing to the development of messaging that makes findings actionable for communities, partners, and stakeholders. This internship provides hands-on experience in data storytelling, public health communication, and strategic messaging.
Responsibilities:
- Create infographics, social media posts, fact sheets, slide decks, and web content that explain key findings.
- Review scientific papers and highlight key insights into clear, relevant takeaways for non-technical audiences.
- Collaborate with epidemiologists and data technicians to ensure accuracy and clarity.
- Track emerging issues (e.g., youth violence, traffic injuries, firearm-related harm) and support the development of timely, responsive communications.
Requirements:
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student (in good academic standing) in Public Health, Communications, Public Administration, or a related field, with coursework in statistics, research methods, or introductory public health preferred.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Canva, and major social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter), with experience supporting and creating social media campaigns. Ability to work remotely and maintain regular communication with the supervising team.
- Secure home internet access, a hotspot, or VPN.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Strong written communication, attention to detail, and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, consistent, and audience-appropriate content.
- Foundational data literacy, including the ability to interpret charts, identify trends, and understand public health terminology.
- Experience with visual communication and design tools to create effective infographics and other data-driven materials.
- Ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible, and responsible messaging for diverse audiences.
- Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with internal teams and external partners.
- Ability to adapt to evolving priorities and incorporate feedback into deliverables.
- Initiative and willingness to take ownership of projects.
Duration and Compensation:
This internship is for the summer and fall 2026 semesters (with flexible start and end dates depending on your academic schedule) and will require approximately 10-15 hours per week.
This is an unpaid internship, but academic credit may be available depending on your institution’s policies and guidelines – please check with your academic advisor.
All applications must be submitted by Friday, May 1st, 2026, by 9 a.m. to be considered for this internship.
Apply Here