R&D Veterinary Services Intern - Fort Dodge, IA (Summer 2027)

Elanco • Fort Dodge, IA

9d • $20 - $40 • Onsite

About The Position

The R&D Veterinary Services Intern will work with a team of five veterinarians and two veterinary technicians overseeing the health and welfare of research animals at Elanco’s Fort Dodge R&D site. The intern will support medical care, clinical studies, and the animal welfare program, collaborating across Research and Development, Manufacturing, and Quality. The role offers hands-on experience with how animal medicines are developed, regulated, and maintained, and how high-quality animal care supports R&D and product success.

The internship is project-based and focused on business-critical needs. Interns will complete a project and present its objectives, methods, results, and key learnings to R&D colleagues and the intern community. The program also provides networking events, assigned mentors, learning resources, and financial support and assistance securing housing. High-performing interns may be considered for full-time roles or additional internships, based on business needs.

The position is 100% on-site in Fort Dodge, Iowa, with 10% travel to Elanco’s corporate facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, for opening and closing. The internship runs from May 17 through August 6, 2027. Compensation is $20–$40 per hour, depending on major and year in school.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program with a science concentration, such as biology, animal science, or pre-veterinary studies, or currently enrolled in a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.
• Must return to a degree-seeking program for the fall semester following completion of the internship.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with veterinarians, technicians, and cross-functional teams.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Enthusiasm to learn and grow in a regulated research environment, with an open and curious mindset.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of animal care and documentation.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated interest in laboratory animal medicine and/or animal welfare.
• Previous internship experience with a science, pharmaceutical, or animal health background.

Responsibilities

• Follow applicable policies, procedures, and animal welfare standards in a highly regulated environment.
• Learn to develop, manage, and participate in a cohesive animal welfare program.
• Work with cross-functional teams to support animal health, welfare, and study execution.
• Support veterinary staff with colony maintenance and clinical case management.
• Present final project objectives, methods, results, and key learnings to R&D colleagues and the intern community.

Benefits

• Professional development through networking events, assigned mentors, and learning resources.
• Financial support and help securing housing.
• High-performing interns may be considered for full-time roles or additional internships, based on business needs.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed