Summer Intern (Public Health): White House Office of National Drug Control Policy

White House Office of National Drug Control Policy 

Summer 2026 Internship Opportunity

The Office of Public Health, within the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, is pleased to offer a competitive Summer 2026 internship opportunity for qualified undergraduate and graduate students. The starting date for the summer intern rotation is in May, but adjustments can be made to accommodate schools’ finals weeks. This is a unique opportunity to work on public health policy at the highest levels of government.

Located within the Executive Office of the President, the mission of the Office of National Drug Control Policy is to advise the President of the United States on the development and implementation of the National Drug Control Strategy and lead the nation’s whole-of-government approach to combat the scourge of illicit drugs. 

In the Office of Public Health, accepted applicants will have the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in the development and implementation of policies aimed at preventing the use of illicit drugs through public health and education initiatives, expanding access to evidence-based treatment, expanding the availability of the full spectrum of recovery services, and preventing and responding to drug overdoses. Interns will contribute to advancing the entire range of public health initiatives under the National Drug Control Strategy to reduce drug use and its negative consequences. This internship provides interested applicants the opportunity to participate in influencing legislation on all drug-related issues; driving Executive Branch action on drug policy; participating in the interagency process that shapes policymaking; and setting priorities and providing guidance that has a national impact on America’s drug crisis.

In order to be eligible for this opportunity, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, must be 18 years of age or older, and males must be registered with Selective Service. Interns should be able to commit to at least 15 hours per week and must be currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate college, community college, or university at least half-time, as determined by the institution’s credit schedule. All applicants must pass a background check and drug test to be accepted. 

Interested students who meet the above criteria should submit a current resume, cover letter, and transcript to Dr. Jenna Newman, Staff Director, at Jenna.B.Newman@ondcp.eop.gov. Applications must be received by Monday, February 2, 2026.