Research, Data, and Consulting

This pathway is for students interested in generating and applying evidence to solve health and development challenges—whether through academic or applied research, data science, or strategy consulting for health-focused organizations.

Professionals in this space work at research institutes, think tanks, consulting firms (both generalist and health-specific), and data-driven organizations building tools and applications for the health sector.

The best way to explore this field is through direct research experience—working in a lab, contributing to a data project, or supporting a consulting engagement—since the analytical skills and problem-solving approach are best learned by doing.

Key Skills and Coursework

Students pursuing this pathway benefit from coursework and experience in:

  • Statistics, econometrics, and quantitative methods

  • Data science and programming (e.g., R, Python, SQL)

  • Research design and methodology

  • Economics (particularly development or health economics)

  • Case-based problem solving (useful for consulting interviews)

Strong analytical and communication skills are essential, since much of the work in this field involves translating complex data or research findings into clear recommendations for decision-makers.

Gaining Experience

Undergraduate research experience is highly valued in this pathway, even though it is not always formally required. Ways to build relevant experience include:

  • Research assistant positions with faculty working on health, development, or global health topics

  • Data analysis internships with research institutes, consulting firms, or health-tech organizations

  • Case competition participation (many consulting firms recruit through these)

  • Summer internships with consulting firms that have health, international development, or public sector practices

Students should seek out a mix of technical experience (data, statistics) and applied experience (working directly with an organization on a real problem) to be competitive for both industry roles and graduate programs.

Kiphart Collegiate Fellows Program

The Kiphart Collegiate Fellows Program supports experiential-learning internships in global health and social development, with a preferred focus on low- and middle-income countries.

Fellows receive a stipend of up to $5,000, access to an exclusive job board, and cohort events throughout the fellowship year. Up to 15 first-, second- and third-year students are selected each year, and students of any major are eligible to apply.

Applications are managed by Career Advancement and posted on Handshake during Autumn Quarter.

Pozen Global Health Scholars

The Pozen Global Health Scholars Program is a selective track for College students interested in the broad range of careers related to health equity. The program is open to first-, second-, and third-year students, and students of all majors are encouraged to apply.

Scholars complete skills workshops, attend conferences, participate in innovation challenges, and receive a designation of completion on their transcript at graduation. They also benefit from networking with global health and human development organizations, international summer internships with grassroots nonprofits and multilateral agencies, funding for certifications and conference attendance, and international global health career treks.

The program is supported by a generous gift from Richard (AB’69) and Ann Pozen.