Investment Banking Summer Analyst, Life Sciences, Summer 2026 Program

To apply for the Investment Banking Summer Analyst position at William Blair, candidates should be pursuing an undergraduate degree with expected graduation between December 2026 and June 2027. A cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above is preferred, though all applicants are welcome. While all majors are considered, a background in life sciences is particularly advantageous. A general understanding of accounting and finance, coupled with strong analytical, quantitative, and communication skills, is essential for a successful application.

As an Investment Banking Summer Analyst at William Blair, you'll take on a range of responsibilities that mirror those of a full-time analyst. This includes researching and creating pitch materials, conducting valuation analyses, and preparing landscape analyses to deepen your knowledge of the life sciences sector. You will also have the opportunity to engage in live transactions and contribute meaningfully to M&A processes, while working closely with both junior and senior bankers throughout the program.

Yes, the Investment Banking Summer Analyst program at William Blair is a paid internship. We value your contributions and are committed to compensating you fairly for the essential work you'll be doing during the summer program, along with providing invaluable real-world experience in the investment banking field.

The selection process for the Investment Banking Summer Analyst position at William Blair typically involves an online application followed by a series of interviews. Candidates will initially submit their resume and cover letter, after which selected candidates will go through behavioral and technical interviews to assess their fit for the role, as well as their understanding of finance and life sciences.

The Investment Banking Summer Analyst program at William Blair is an excellent stepping stone for your career. Throughout the internship, you'll be evaluated for potential full-time placement within the firm following graduation. We’re committed to promoting talent from within and continually investing in our employees’ professional growth, ensuring that you have the support and opportunities needed to advance in your career.

When answering this question, it's essential to express your genuine interest in both investment banking and life sciences. Highlight specific aspects of William Blair that excite you, such as their boutique model and focus on innovation. Discuss how the role aligns with your career goals and what unique perspectives you can bring, showcasing your passion for both finance and healthcare.

In your response, discuss your methodical approach to financial analysis, including key metrics you focus on, such as revenue growth, EBITDA, and other financial ratios. Explain your knowledge of valuation methods, such as DCF, comparable company analysis, or precedent transactions, and highlight any relevant projects or experiences where you've applied these skills.

Provide a specific example of a quantitative challenge you had to tackle, explaining the context, the analytical methods or tools you used, and the outcome. Emphasize your problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and how you utilized your analytical skills to achieve a successful resolution.

Stay current with major trends in the life sciences industry, such as advancements in gene therapy, innovative drug development, or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Elaborate on why this development interests you, including its implications for public health and the financial markets. This demonstrates your industry knowledge and enthusiasm when addressing the topic.

Discuss your strategies for managing stress and prioritizing tasks in fast-paced environments. You could include techniques such as breaking tasks into manageable parts, using time management tools, and communicating effectively with your team. Provide examples of how you've successfully met deadlines in past experiences to illustrate your ability to thrive under pressure.

Highlight key skills needed for the Investment Banking Summer Analyst role, including strong analytical abilities, solid financial modeling skills, and excellent communication proficiency. Discuss how your own skills align with these requirements and provide examples of past experiences that have helped you develop them.

Discuss qualities such as analytical thinking, strong communication skills, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit that contribute to an investment banker's success. Relate this to the culture at William Blair and how you embody these qualities, helping to nurture an environment where teamwork and client service thrive.

Address this question by explaining your attention to detail and the steps you take to maintain accuracy, such as double-checking data, utilizing checklists, and seeking feedback from peers. Provide specific examples where this diligence helped avoid potential errors or led to a successful project outcome.

Mention aspects like William Blair's independence as a boutique firm, its commitment to client success, and the focus on the life sciences sector. Share your enthusiasm for the company culture and how it aligns with your values, as well as your desire to be part of a team known for innovation and excellence.

Discuss your aspiration in the finance or life sciences field and how the internship serves as a critical stepping stone towards achieving these goals. Convey how you see yourself growing within the industry and potentially at William Blair, emphasizing your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.