How to find your first medical writing job or internship with an MD degree

If you’re an MD looking to transition into medical writing, securing that first opportunity is an essential step.

With your clinical background and any recent training, you already have a strong foundation.

Now, it’s time to leverage your expertise, gain experience and break into the field of medical writing.

Here’s how to practically set yourself up for success in finding a medical writing internship or entry-level medical writer job.

1. Target medical communication agencies and freelance platforms

Medical communication agencies often need entry-level medical writers or interns for diverse projects. Many agencies, especially those focused on health and science communication, regulatory writing or medical education, value the unique perspective an MD brings.

You can also find freelance medical writing opportunities on platforms like Upwork and ProBlogger. While these may be short-term or contract projects, freelance writing lets you build a portfolio, gain hands-on health writing experience and can often lead to more permanent roles in medical writing.

2. Use LinkedIn to connect with medical writing recruiters

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for finding medical writing internships, jobs and building connections. Start by optimising your profile to highlight your clinical experience, recent writing certifications and your commitment to transitioning into medical writing.

Use LinkedIn’s job search feature to look for terms like “medical writing internship,” “junior medical writer,” or “medical communication specialist.” Follow companies and reach out to recruiters, introducing yourself as a qualified MD interested in breaking into medical writing. Recruiters often welcome conversations with qualified newcomers and LinkedIn networking can help you uncover unadvertised roles or leads.

3. Join AMWA’s mentorship and job programmes

The American Medical Writers Association (AMWA), the European Medical Writers Association and the Australasian Medical Writers Association are the go-to resources for aspiring medical writers.

These associations often provide links to mentorship programmes, job boards and networking events, offering direct ways to find internships or entry-level positions. Engaging with other members at events, webinars or regional meetings can also introduce you to professionals who can offer guidance or job leads.

4. Seek volunteer roles in health organisations or nonprofits

Volunteering in health-focused organisations or nonprofits can help you build credibility, expand your writing portfolio and create valuable professional connections. Many nonprofits, advocacy groups and health organisations need help with content creation and patient education materials. Volunteering lets you apply your skills and the experience you gain can lead to referrals or paid opportunities in medical writing.

5. Explore medical education companies for entry-level roles

Medical education companies hire medical writers to create content, training materials and educational resources for healthcare professionals. Your MD background is highly relevant here and many companies offer internships or junior roles for new writers.

Search for these companies online, visit their career pages and consider reaching out to introduce yourself and express your interest in an internship or trial position.

6. Leverage your clinical network for leads and referrals

Let your former clinical colleagues and mentors know about your transition into medical writing. Ask if they’re aware of any organisations or connections in need of medical content expertise. Networking within your clinical community can be surprisingly effective in finding leads or getting referrals, especially for entry-level medical writing roles.

7. Subscribe to medical writing job boards

Job boards like MedCommJobs, BioSpace and AMWA’s job board feature listings for medical writing internships, entry-level roles and freelance opportunities. Set up job alerts for keywords like “medical writer,” “clinical writer,” or “medical editor” to get notified of new postings. Being one of the first to apply can increase your chances of securing an interview.

8. Build a medical writing portfolio to showcase your skills

A strong medical writing portfolio is crucial when applying for medical writing roles. Even if you don’t have professional samples, you can create a few writing pieces on relevant topics. Consider writing sample patient education materials, clinical study summaries or health articles.

Publish your portfolio online using simple platforms like Wix or WordPress. Link it to your LinkedIn profile and CV so potential employers can easily view examples of your work and see your commitment to medical writing.

9. Explore internships with pharmaceutical and biotech companies

Pharmaceutical and biotech companies frequently offer internships for individuals with clinical or scientific backgrounds, making these roles a good fit for MDs transitioning to medical writing. Internships in regulatory medical writing or scientific communication often welcome candidates with clinical expertise.

Look for internships directly on major pharma or biotech websites, or check job boards like BioSpace. These positions provide specialised experience and a deeper understanding of medical writing in a clinical research context.

10. Cold email hiring managers to express your interest

If you have a specific organisation or company in mind, consider cold emailing to find medical writing jobs – target hiring managers or content directors.

A concise, professional email introducing yourself and highlighting your MD background and recent health writing training can make a positive impression.

Direct outreach shows initiative and gives you a chance to connect with decision-makers who might be looking for a medical writer but haven’t publicly advertised the position.

Moving forward in medical writing

Breaking into medical writing with an MD degree is achievable and your clinical expertise can make you a valuable candidate.

By strategically networking, building a portfolio and pursuing every opportunity, you can land that first medical writing job or internship and begin a fulfilling career in this field.