WLSI testimonials
Hear from past participants about their experience as a Massey intern.
About the Walter Lawrence Science Writing Initiative
The Walter Lawrence Science Writing Initiative (WLSI) offers exposure to career pathways for individuals interested in scientific writing and science communication. Interns will gain an understanding of related opportunities within the field of biomedical research.
Qualified applicants should demonstrate academic excellence, be intellectually curious, team orientated and have an interest in oncology-related careers.
Internship details
The WLSI is open to students who have completed qualifying exams at the PhD level and postdoctoral trainees with an interest in scientific writing and science communications. Individuals not interested in pursuing a scientific writing career will not be considered. Features of the internship include:
- Six-week, remote learning experience from June 1-July 10, 2026 with a commitment of 30 internship hours per week, daily 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST
- Development of a foundational understanding of scientific writing careers including grant writing, manuscript writing, public relations communications and clinical trial protocol writing
- Engagement with cancer and industry-based experts in science communication
- Interns will participate in 1-2 hour didactics or panel discussions with writing experts each day followed by 1-2 hours completing topic-related writing assignments that are then reviewed and discussed each day as a group. Each intern also completes a longitudinal science writing project in the area of their interest (grant writing, manuscript writing, protocol writing, public-facing communications, etc) and meets 1-2 times weekly with an assigned mentor.
Stipend award
- Interns will receive a stipend of $3,000.
- All VCU-affiliated candidates who receive funding from VCU cannot participate in WLSI without approval from their academic advisor and/or program director.
Application process and eligibility
- Students who have completed qualifying exams for a PhD or received a PhD in biomedical sciences and have a career interest in cancer-related communications
- Individuals interested in exploring a science writing position in their professional career
Download letter of recommendation guidelines (PDF)
WLSI applications open on November 15, 2025. For more information, contact us at MCCCRTEC@vcu.edu.
Q: The website says this internship is 30-hours per week, does it have specific hours?
A: All scholars are required to be available from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST.
Q: 30-hours a week seems flexible, can I work another job during the internship?
A: In short, no. Scholars will have hours where they are participating in virtual instruction, but it also requires collaboration with peers and administrators. Maintaining multiple jobs would be nearly impossible.
Q: Will there be any in-person meetings or requirements?
A: No, this internship is fully remote.
Q: I am currently working on my postdoc/in medical school and hoping to go into medicine/academia. Can I pursue this internship?
A: This program is designed for individuals who hope to pursue careers as scientific writers and not careers in academia/in academic medicine.
