LITERATURE INTERN

MERCATUS CENTER INC • Arlington, VA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Mercatus Summer Internship Program is a paid, nine-week, in-person summer internship designed to equip undergraduate students, recent graduates, and early-stage graduate students with the knowledge, skills, and professional connections needed to pursue careers in ideas, policy, and social change. The Literature Internship, anchored by Research Fellow and emerging scholar Henry Oliver, investigates how classic and contemporary literature cultivates values central to human flourishing and liberal thought. Interns assist with literary criticism, writing, and research that bridges cultural understanding and the broader mission of advancing a flourishing society. Interns join a vibrant intellectual community and engage in a rigorous curriculum exploring the Mercatus approach to political economy, classical liberalism, and institutional analysis. Through readings, lectures, workshops, and collaborative discussions, interns gain exposure to the ideas and tools that shape policy debates and social change—while also gaining hands-on experience contributing to the work of a leading nonprofit research organization.

Requirements

• An undergraduate student, recent graduate, or early-stage graduate student
• Self-motivated and eager to grow professionally
• Curious about ideas, institutions, and social change
• Interested in learning more about classical liberalism and political economy
• Students from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply.
• Prior coursework or research experience in economics or political theory is not required.

Responsibilities

• Supporting research, policy analysis, and programmatic initiatives
• Contributing to projects in areas such as research, talent development, operations, marketing, or communications
• Participating in weekly readings, lectures, and discussions led by Mercatus scholars and staff
• Attending professional development workshops focused on research, communication, and career preparation
• Engaging with visiting scholars and participating in site visits across Washington, DC

Benefits

• Paid compensation (stipend or hourly pay)
• Meals and all required program readings
• Mentorship and guidance on research, career paths, and graduate school
• Exposure to leading scholars and practitioners in policy and social change
• A professional network of peers, mentors, and alumni
• Tangible work products to showcase in academic or professional settings
• Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with experience.
• In addition, Mercatus provides excellent benefits to all individual employees, including full health and dental coverage, flexible spending accounts, long-term disability and life insurance, a 403(b) retirement savings program, parking/travel benefits, and twelve free credits per year at George Mason University.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed