Research Intern (Summer 2026)

Job Overview:

States United Democracy Center, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to the rule of law and free, fair, and secure elections, is seeking a Research Intern to join its Research and Analytics department for the 2026 summer semester. Reporting to and working closely with a Senior Researcher, the Research Intern will provide administrative and programmatic support to the Research and Analytics team. The Research Intern has an opportunity to learn about quantitative and qualitative research, democracy and election protection, and the operations of a non-profit.

Responsibilities:

• Perform all duties in accordance with States United's values of integrity, inclusion, collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Assist with desk research on election and rule of law topics.
• Help code data and gather data sources for various databases.
• Support staff in drafting, proofreading, and fact-checking research materials, research reports, and memos.
• Conduct online research and support the writing of background memos.
• Attending and taking notes at meetings and preparing lists of follow-up tasks.
• Additional responsibilities may include providing research support as needed for litigation and report rollouts.

Minimum Requirements:

• Must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college/university with an interest in political science, American government, or related field.
• Must be able to work 20 hours per week.
• Demonstrated passion for States United's issues.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Strong writing, editing, interpersonal communication, and research skills.
• Self-motivation and the ability to work independently on projects from conception to completion.
• Ability to work under pressure at times.
• Ability to use sound judgment and discretion in working with confidential and/or sensitive information.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues in a demanding and fast-paced environment.
• Ability to multitask and respond effectively to changing workloads and priorities.
• Ability to solve problems and creatively leverage resources to arrive at a resolution.
• A positive attitude and demonstrated concern for people and community, self-confidence, common sense, good listening ability, and a collaborative orientation.
• Display a positive attitude, show concern for people and community, demonstrate presence, self-confidence, common sense, and good listening ability.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Interest in working on issues of election protection, voting rights, rule of law, and/or democracy protection.

We welcome and encourage individuals to apply even if they do not have all or any of the desired qualifications listed above.

Compensation + Benefits:

The salary for this internship will be $17.00/hour

We have offices located in Boston, MA; Brooklyn, NY; and Washington, DC. This position may also be remote within the United States.

States United values a diverse workforce and a culture of inclusivity and belonging. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.