Policy Internship

The Cadence Institute seeks a Research and Policy Intern to support its expanding research portfolio focused on identifying and analyzing emerging issues impacting New York City and the broader United States.

This internship is ideal for a graduate student or recent graduate with strong interests in public policy, urban affairs, economics, political science, sociology, law, or related fields.

The intern will work directly with Institute leadership on:

• Identifying emerging policy challenges affecting NYC and national communities
• Conducting literature reviews and data analysis
• Supporting the drafting of policy briefs, white papers, and public-facing research
• Assisting with coalition-building efforts
• Supporting youth engagement in research and civic leadership initiatives
• Support grant and proposal development and writing 

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a growing policy institute committed to empowering young people as researchers, writers, and civic leaders.

Key Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting research on emerging economic, workforce, governance, and social policy issues impacting NYC and the United States
• Monitoring public scholarship, think tank reports, federal and state policy developments, and media discourse
• Assisting in drafting policy briefs, research memoranda, and blog publications
• Supporting survey development, data collection, and analysis
• Contributing to research on labor markets, economic mobility, entrepreneurship, public health, and democratic participation
• Supporting coalition-building efforts with community organizations, advocacy groups, and policy leaders
• Assisting with events, webinars, and research roundtables
• Supporting website and social media research dissemination efforts
• Engaging youth participants in research processes and public policy education
• Providing administrative and operational support as needed

Desired Qualifications

• Graduate student or recent graduate in public policy, urban affairs, economics, political science, law, sociology, or related fields
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills
• Familiarity with public datasets and policy research methods preferred
• Ability to synthesize complex information into accessible writing
• Strong time management skills and ability to work independently
• Commitment to equity, community empowerment, and democratic engagement

Self-starters with intellectual curiosity and a passion for research that leads to impact are strongly encouraged to apply.

What Interns Will Gain

Interns will:

• Develop hands-on experience in policy research and publication
• Contribute to real-world policy briefs and public scholarship
• Gain exposure to coalition-building and civic mobilization strategies
• Build professional networks in policy and nonprofit leadership
• Strengthen skills in research design, data analysis, and public writing
• Contribute to work that meaningfully impacts communities

Internship Details

• Start Date: Rolling / Immediate
• Duration: Through December or May (based on academic calendar)
• Hours: Minimum 10 hours per week
• Academic Credit: Interns are expected to apply for credit-bearing internship courses at their home institution
• Compensation: Limited funding is available. As a growing nonprofit initiative, we are actively pursuing expanded funding opportunities.

Location: Remote