The Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) is calling for applications to its highly anticipated 2026 Internship Program, an opportunity for students and early-career professionals to contribute to meaningful, life-saving work across the global health spectrum. Running from April to October 2026, the internship offers hands-on experience across diverse public health and operations programs.
Applications are now open and will close on November 15, 2025.
About CHAI: A Legacy of Health Impact
Founded in 2002 to address the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, CHAI has evolved into a leading international health organization working across 40 countries. From lowering the cost of antiretroviral drugs to strengthening health systems, CHAI continues to play a key role in tackling pressing health issues including COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, cancer, hypertension, maternal and child health, digital health, and vaccine delivery.
CHAI works closely with governments and the private sector to ensure that solutions are locally owned, nationally scalable, and globally shareable, while its teams—primarily based in program countries—collaborate to ensure sustainable, country-led impact.
A Unique Internship Experience in Global Health
CHAI’s 2026 Internship Program is tailored for individuals eager to gain practical experience in public health, health systems strengthening, and operations. Interns will be embedded in program teams and will contribute directly to ongoing projects.
Whether based remotely, in-office, or in a hybrid setup, interns will take part in activities that support CHAI’s mission of reducing disease burdens and saving lives in low- and middle-income countries.
What Interns Will Do: Responsibilities and Focus Areas
Interns will support CHAI programs across several thematic areas. While roles may vary depending on placement, interns will generally contribute in the following ways:
- Data Analysis & Research: Assist in data modeling, research, and analysis to support program strategies and inform decision-making.
- Project Implementation: Help monitor and track health initiatives, draft reports, and support program documentation.
- Strategic Collaboration: Work across departments to contribute to cross-functional projects and generate innovative public health solutions.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Support communication with government agencies, NGOs, and local partners to coordinate project implementation.
- Knowledge Management: Contribute to knowledge sharing tools such as presentations, briefs, and reports to scale successful interventions.
- Operational Support: Assist with event planning, logistics, finance, and administrative tasks that ensure programs run efficiently.
Learning and Development Opportunities
Interns will receive ongoing support and mentorship, including:
- Real-world experience in health program planning and execution
- Exposure to CHAI’s global network and strategic partnerships
- Insight into cross-sector collaboration, particularly with government stakeholders
- Development of skills in teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving
- Performance feedback from supervisors and team members
This is not only a chance to contribute to global health equity—it’s also a space to develop critical professional skills that can pave the way for a long-term career in the field.
Who Should Apply: Candidate Profile
CHAI seeks diverse, passionate individuals who share its commitment to global health equity. Ideal candidates include:
- Graduate students in public health, international development, economics, business, or related fields
- Final-year undergraduates with a demonstrated interest in public health
- Candidates who have experience in research, data analysis, and standard software tools (Microsoft Office; knowledge of SPSS, Python, or Excel is a plus)
- Strong written and verbal communicators, particularly those who are collaborative and respectful in cross-cultural teams
- Individuals with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset, and who thrive in fast-paced environments
- Proficiency in English is required; additional language skills, especially in languages spoken in CHAI’s program countries, are an asset
In addition to skills and experience, CHAI values attributes such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, curiosity, and integrity.
Internship Logistics and Compensation
- Duration: 8 to 16 weeks (full-time)
- Location: Remote, in-office, or hybrid depending on placement and program needs
- Compensation: Interns receive a fair stipend aligned with local labor laws; additional support such as per diem, visa and travel assistance, and accommodation support may be available
- University Partnerships: CHAI partners with select universities to offer financial aid or academic credit—students are encouraged to check with their institution
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application via CHAI’s careers portal no later than November 15, 2025. A complete application includes a CV and a tailored cover letter that highlights interest in global health and CHAI’s mission.
Applicants are also encouraged to explore CHAI’s website and learn more about their programs and country offices before applying.
Make a Difference with CHAI in 2026
The CHAI Internship Program is more than a resume boost—it’s an invitation to be part of real solutions that improve health and save lives. If you’re driven by purpose, eager to learn, and committed to health equity, this is your opportunity to make a global impact and start building a meaningful career in global health.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
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