Research Internships at High-Impact Public Policy Organization

The Migration Policy Institute is an independent, nonpartisan think tank in Washington, DC dedicated to the study of migration worldwide. The Demetrios G. Papademetriou Young Scholars Program has two goals: harnessing the valuable contributions of interns for MPI's work and training the next generation of public policy leaders and migration scholars. Applications are due by July 1 for the Fall internship cycle (September – December) for full-time and part-time, remote and in D.C. internships, which come with a stipend.

Research interns work within one of MPI's four program areas: U.S. Immigration, International Migration, U.S. Immigrant Integration, or Latin America and Caribbean Initiative.

Duties include:

• Contributing to overall MPI research efforts, including through independent quantitative and/or qualitative research and policy analysis
• Writing paper drafts and preparing literature summaries
• Providing administrative support on events
• Attending and summarizing congressional hearings and other relevant public and private events 

Details

Internships are available on both full- and part-time basis (full-time for U.S. Immigrant Integration). A stipend is offered to full-time interns and a prorated stipend is available for those working part-time. Students also may arrange to obtain credit for their work. MPI does not cover relocation expenses. 

Current students (juniors and seniors), college graduates, graduate students, and early-career professionals are welcome to apply. Those without college experience but who can demonstrate substantial relevant work experience will also be considered. Minority applicants and/or applicants from immigrant or refugee backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must possess excellent oral and written communication skills, and be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Foreign language skills and proficiency in key Office and other software programs prove helpful for certain projects, as do strong quantitative skills.

Interested applicants should send to internship@migrationpolicy.org the following materials:

• CV/Resume
• Cover letter describing your interest and research experience in migration and/or public policy issues (for research internships)
• A writing sample that showcases your ability to write clearly and analytically about migration, integration, refugee, or other public policy issue (up to 5 pages). The writing sample must be in English, and should be an unedited, solo-authored piece
• A transcript (official or unofficial) from all colleges/universities attended that shows classes taken along with class grades.

In your email, please specify:

• The MPI program area(s) you are interested in. Most applicants should apply for a maximum of two program areas
• The approximate dates you are available to start and finish
• Whether you are available full- or part-time
• Whether you prefer a remote or in-person internship
• A telephone number where you can be reached.

Interns should submit one application but may indicate interest in multiple types of internships or multiple research areas. For additional information, you may contact internship@migrationpolicy.org. Due to the large number of applicants, only those being considered for the position will be contacted. No phone calls please.