Working at the Intersection of Research, Policy, and Public Health

By Seth Gorelik ‘25​
Conducting research regarding the prevention, treatment, and ultimately, the cure of diabetes
Seth poses with a coworker in the office.

I spent my summer internship within the Pediatric Endocrinology Unit at the Yale University Diabetes Research Center (DRC).​ The DRC aims to bridge the gap between basic and clinical science to develop innovative strategies for the prevention, treatment, and ultimately, the cure of diabetes.

My primary focus during the internship involved examining policymakers’ perspectives on communication strategies for addressing access barriers in type 1 diabetes (T1D) care, additionally assessing their feedback on suggested policy recommendations to gauge feasibility and efficacy. I sought to translate research findings into actionable policy changes. By building a communication framework tailored to policymakers’ preferences and developing user-centered educational tools, the study aimed to bridge the research-to-action gap and promote equitable access to life-saving technologies.

Through this internship, I gained a profound appreciation for the intricate interplay between research, policy, and public health. I loved collaborating with talented colleagues, exploring the vibrant city of New Haven, and contributing to a project with the potential to positively impact the lives of individuals with T1D. The sense of purpose and camaraderie within the DRC created a truly enriching and memorable experience.

Internship funded by the Peter Buck Internship Fund​.