Job Description

Job Title: Medical Directorate & Scientific Communication Intern
Department: Research & Innovation, L'Oreal Sub-Saharan Africa
Location: L'Oreal South Africa, Woodmead, Johannesburg
Reporting To: Head of Scientific Communications & Medical Advocacy
Internship Duration: 12 months, commencing 1st December 2025
Job Summary:
Are you passionate about the intersection of cutting-edge science and clear, impactful communication? Do you thrive on translating complex medical information into accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences? Join our Medical Directorate & Scientific Communication team as an Intern and play a vital role in disseminating scientific knowledge, supporting medical affairs initiatives, and enhancing our brand's scientific presence. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment, contributing to projects that bridge scientific rigor with strategic communication within the Dermo-cosmetics and Cosmetics industry.
Key Responsibilities:
As a Medical Directorate & Scientific Communication Intern, you will be actively involved in various initiatives, including but not limited to: * Scientific Content Development & Curation:

• Assisting the research, writing, editing, and review of a wide range of scientific and medical content (e.g., scientific presentations, internal and external presentations, abstracts, posters, manuscripts, medical information responses, training materials, website content, social media posts).
• Translate complex scientific data and clinical study results into clear, concise, and compelling language tailored for specific target audiences (Healthcare professionals, consumers, internal stakeholders) in line with the relevant industry and internal policies.
• Support the development of plain language summaries and infographics to enhance understanding of scientific information.
• Medical Affairs Support:

• Conduct comprehensive literature searches and synthesize scientific data to support ongoing medical affairs projects, product development, and scientific inquiries.
• Assisting the preparation of materials for advisory boards, scientific congresses, medical education programs, and internal scientific training sessions.
• Contribute to the analysis and compilation of published literature to keep internal teams informed of key scientific advancements and competitive landscapes.
• Communication Strategy & Execution:

• Support the planning, coordination, and logistical execution of internal and external scientific communication events.
• Contribute to the development of communication plans and strategies for scientific initiatives.
• Help monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of scientific communication efforts, suggesting improvements where appropriate.
• Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams including Research & Development, Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Development, Marketing, and Legal to ensure alignment and consistency in scientific messaging.
• Compliance & Documentation:

• Adhere strictly to all relevant industry guidelines, ethical standards, and internal company procedures governing scientific communications.
• Maintain meticulous records and documentation for all scientific communication materials.

Required Qualifications:

• Post-graduate qualification (BSc Honors, Masters or Ph.D.degree in a relevant scientific or medical field (Life Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline).
• Proven track record in scientific research publications and or medical communication.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in conducting scientific literature searches using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, etc.
• Ability to synthesize complex scientific information into clear and digestible content.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Learning Opportunities & Benefits:

• Gain invaluable hands-on experience in medical affairs and scientific communication within a leading multinational cosmetic company.

• Develop a deep understanding of the scientific communication lifecycle, from research to dissemination.
• Enhance your scientific writing, critical thinking, and project management skills.
• Contribute to meaningful projects that impact healthcare professionals and consumers.
• Opportunity to network with experts across various scientific and business functions.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and take pride in a diverse environment. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, medical condition or disability. We adhere to all local Labour Relations legislation.
Closing Date: 26 November 2025

Skills Required