2018 Paid Summer Internship (8102-01-i)

MDRC is seeking rising undergraduate seniors of diverse backgrounds for paid summer internships at our New York City office. The mission of the internships, which are part of MDRC's Gueron Scholars Program, is to engage and to encourage individuals from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the public policy research community.

The selected summer interns will have opportunities to do applied research related to public policy issues and to build analytical and presentation skills. Interns will be part of multidisciplinary teams evaluating social programs. Each intern will have the opportunity to support a range of projects within MDRC’s five policy areas: Family Well-Being and Children’s Development, K-12 Education, Postsecondary Education, Low-Wage Workers and Communities, and Youth Development, Criminal Justice, and Employment.

Responsibilities:

The eight-week paid internship provides the opportunity to work with MDRC teams on a range of organizational and analytical tasks, including but not limited to:

• Assisting with program operations and program development activities for sites enrolled in MDRC research studies.
• Supporting qualitative research design and, if possible, assist with field research at local NYC research sites.
• Conducting literature reviews.
• Close involvement in various stages of producing reports, proposals, and other written deliverables.
• Assisting with innovative ways to communicate our findings to practitioners and policymakers.
• Providing general project and management support for project teams, such as note-taking at meetings.

In addition to these project responsibilities, candidates will participate in regular networking meetings with various MDRC staff to learn more about topic areas of interest and to understand the context of MDRC’s policy work. Interns will also have the chance to attend trainings and talks to develop specific skills and knowledge areas.

Qualifications:

• Rising undergraduate senior in public policy, sociology, communication, psychology, social work, education, economics, or other related field
• Demonstrated interest in public policy issues that affect low-income communities
• Interest in learning research methods, program operations, and/or data analysis software
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to multi-task
• Comfortable working in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment
• Strong writing and communication skills

How to Apply:

Please submit the following document by the application deadline of March 1, 2018, via our on-line application system:

• Resume
• A personal statement (no more than 750 words) that discusses (1) your interest in public policy issues, (2) your career interests and goals, (3) how this internship, coupled with your academic pursuit and prior experience, will contribute to your personal and professional growth, and (4) how your experiences align with the expressed mission of the internship.

Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. Candidates will be expected to secure their own housing.

Coordinated by MDRC’s Diversity Council.

MDRC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. MDRC does not discriminate, and all qualified applications will receive consideration without regard to race; color; national origin; religion; creed; sex or gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression); sexual orientation; citizenship status; pregnancy; disability; age; military or veteran status; marital or partnership status; genetic information, genetic predisposition, or carrier status; prior unemployment status; consumer credit history; status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking; or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Legal work authorization is required.