2026 Clinical Trial Operations Intern

Envision spending your summer working with energetic colleagues and inspirational leaders all while gaining world-class experience in one of the most dynamic organizations in the pharmaceutical industry. This is a reality for participants in the Clinical Trial Operations (CTO) Internship Program at AbbVie.

Clinical Trials are required before a new compound can be available for use by patients.  A clinical study in human volunteers is conducted to answer specific health questions: Is it safe Does it work  Is it better than what is currently offered to patients At AbbVie the Clinical Operations group conducts/manages clinical trials and provides therapeutically aligned scientific strategy and operations management for the planning execution and reporting of clinical development programs to enable successful global registration and commercialization of drug development projects.

As a CTO intern youll participate in a paid 10-12-week summer program working on meaningful assignments that have a real impact on our business and patients worldwide. As an intern you will be located at our corporate headquarters in north suburban Chicago. Throughout the summer there will be planned development and networking activities along with relocation support for eligible students.

AbbVies worldwide Clinical Operations business offers you an opportunity to work in one of the following areas and collaborate with clinical sites globally:

• Clinical Data Strategy & Operations: The Clinical Data Strategy Operations (CDSO) function is responsible for overseeing and executing against the strategy around clinical data collection management integration and utilization within AbbVie clinical trials. This includes the operations and technology to enable data acquisition quality assurance governance compliance data architecture and effective data analysis to support decision-making. The organization works to ensure clinical data is robust accurate and usable for regulatory submissions evidence generation and advancing clinical development objectives. There is cross-functional collaboration with partners including but not limited to clinical development quality assurance technology data management and regulatory affairs.

• Study Management Associate Organization: The Study Management Associate Organization (SMAO) is responsible for supporting the Study Project Manager with the planning execution and oversight of clinical studies or trials. SMAO covers activities such as protocol and informed consent development study startup operational logistics vendor management and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards throughout the study lifecycle. The group works closely with cross functional teams including but not limited to data management regulatory affairs Clinical Site Management (CSM) and external partners to ensure studies are conducted efficiently within timelines and according to quality expectations.

• Clinical Acceleration and Performance: The Clinical Acceleration and Performance (CAP) function focuses on improving the efficiency quality and speed of clinical trials and research operations. CAP is where AbbVie reimagines how clinical trials are run. Their mission is bold but clear: deliver medicines to patients faster by making trials smarter simpler and more effective. The team tackles the toughest challenges in R&Dpatient recruitment site engagement trial efficiencyby combining data science innovative technology and deep clinical expertise. The group is comprised of out-of-the-box thinkers problem-solvers and change-drivers who thrive on collaboration and creativity.

Past examples of internship projects have included:

• Assisting with activities associated with the development and implementation of strategic initiatives related to clinical trial initiation
• Helping to assess design and recommend operational analytics to support study management
• Developing resources and tools for Study Management Associates (SMAs) to manage current projects that position clinical trials for success
• Supporting the creation of new playbooks that help improve the efficiency of clinical study timelines

AbbVie strongly considers high performing interns as candidates for the Clinical Trial Operations Development Program (CTODP) a two-year rotational program aimed at developing the skills and experience needed to grow a meaningful career in Clinical Operations.

Qualifications :

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in university pursuing a Bachelors degree in Engineering Science or Business Administration or other related field.
• Must be enrolled in university for at least one semester following the internship
• Expected graduation date between December 2026 June 2027

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven track record of teamwork adaptability innovation and integrity
• Business mindset and excellent communication leadership project management problem solving and analytical skills
• Microsoft Excel or other database experience is a plus

Additional Information :

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: 

Benefits and Amenities:

• Competitive pay

• Relocation support for eligible students

• Select wellness benefits and paid holiday / sick time 

• The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the timeof this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location andwe may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonuscommission incentive benefits or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Companys sole and absolutediscretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Companys sole and absolute discretion consistent with applicable law. 

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity driving innovation transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more visit  & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation click here to learn more:

Work :

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