Pediatrics Summer Research Intern

Saint Louis University • SLU Saint Louis, MO

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) summer intern will work directly at the intersection of healthcare and social justice. Under the guidance of SLU Law attorneys and in collaboration with Cardinal Glennon pediatric medical teams, the undergraduate intern will assist in identifying and addressing non-medical obstacles—like unsafe housing, food insecurity, and utility shut-offs—that negatively impact children's health. This is an ideal role for students considering careers in law, medicine, public health, or social work.

Requirements

• Current undergraduate student (rising sophomore, junior, or senior) at an accredited college or university.
• Intended career path or strong interest in law, public health, medicine, social work, or public policy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to explain complex processes simply.
• High level of empathy, maturity, and cultural competency when interacting with diverse, vulnerable populations in a stressful hospital environment.
• Strict adherence to patient privacy laws (HIPAA) and confidentiality protocols.

Nice To Haves

• Fluency in Spanish or another second language is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist SLU Law staff with screening patient families at Cardinal Glennon clinics for social and legal needs (e.g., housing safety, food access, public benefits).
• Help gather vital documentation, medical records, and family histories to support legal cases handled by the MLP attorneys.
• Act as a bridge between families and medical staff. Attend pediatric clinic rounds alongside doctors, social workers, and nurses to flag non-medical resource needs.
• Research, update, and maintain a comprehensive database of St. Louis area community resources, utility assistance programs, and housing advocacy groups.
• Help draft basic advocacy letters, educational brochures for patient families, and summary materials regarding health-harming legal needs.

Benefits

• Eligible for undergraduate internship or practicum credit, subject to approval by the student's academic department is possible, but not guaranteed.
• Direct mentorship from SLU Law faculty, practicing attorneys, and pediatric healthcare professionals.
• Unparalleled exposure to both clinical and legal working environments.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed