Frank S. David, MD, PhD
Managing Director, Pharmagellan
Professor of the Practice, Department of Biology, Tufts University
Student research opportunities (updated 9/18/26)
My “research group” is a writing collective where students write blog posts (and sometimes longer pieces) about the biopharma industry with guidance and input from me. The goal is for participants to explore their interests related to drug R&D, regulation, commercialization, innovation, policy, etc. while learning how to write clearly for “smart non-experts” in business, government, and the public at large. The idea is for students interested in pursuing careers in biopharma or adjacent areas (investing/finance, consulting, non-profits, etc.) to emerge from this experience with a portfolio of published work that can help them obtain jobs.
The main requirement to participate in this effort is a sincere desire to write public-facing analyses related to biopharmaceuticals. I expect you to publish or submit at least one blog-length piece per semester.
In terms of topics, students write about whatever interests them about the biopharma industry; I want participants to follow their own curiosity, not mine. (We may occasionally work together on co-authored pieces, but I expect that will be very uncommon.) I will provide help refining students’ choice of topics and approaches as well as feedback on outlines and drafts along the way.
This work is unpaid, but Tufts students may be eligible to receive independent study credit (e.g., via BIO 95 or BIO 195) after a trial period.
If you are interested in working with me, please prepare the following materials:
Your CV or resume
A one-page cover letter describing your interest in the biopharma industry
A draft (or published) blog post on a topic of your choice relevant to biopharma
You may submit a link to a published piece or an unpublished draft (as word doc or PDF)
TUFTS STUDENTS: Use the application form and email address for submission on this website.
NON-TUFTS STUDENTS: Email the materials to frank.david@tufts.edu.
Tips:
For guidance on topics, formats, style, etc., carefully review my piece on why you should start a biotech blog and the links therein.
Successful applicants will demonstrate a deep interest in the biopharma industry, supported by some basic knowledge. If you are relatively new to the area, start with my guide to learning about biopharma.