Research Intern (October 2026 – May 2027)

Institute for Higher Education Policy•Washington, DC

12d•$20 - $24•Remote

About The Position

IHEP is seeking a research intern to join our team remotely for the academic year (October 2026 – May 2027). The research team focuses on federal, state, and institutional policies related to racial and socioeconomic equity; postsecondary data and transparency; college access, affordability, success, and value; and projects that further the practical application of promising practices that drive postsecondary attainment, particularly for Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and underserved Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students and students from low-income backgrounds. The Research Intern will support IHEP's research team in conducting quantitative and qualitative research on postsecondary education. This role is designed for students interested in developing research skills and contributing to evidence that informs improvements in higher education. Interns are likely to participate in team and staff meetings, perform literature reviews, participate in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, summarize information from postsecondary-themed events, external meetings, and/or new research studies, support the development of research reports, blogs as well as advocacy materials/efforts on topics such as postsecondary data, college completion and affordability, and support the preparation of convenings. Although IHEP is headquartered in Washington, D.C., we operate fully remotely on a day-to-day basis and welcome remote applicants for this position.

Requirements

Availability to work part-time, at least 20-25 hours per week, through the fall and spring semesters (October 2026 – May 2027).
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis, data collection, and higher education data sets preferred.
Some experience with project management preferred.
A keen interest in postsecondary education research and advocacy, and to work in an equity-minded organization.
Excellent organizational and follow-through skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a dynamic group of partners and consultants.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and experience with video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Microsoft Teams).
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis, data collection, and higher education data sets
Some experience with project management

Responsibilities

Support IHEP’s research team with quantitative and qualitative research on postsecondary education issues, including conducting literature reviews, writing blog posts, performing data analyses, and summarizing findings from relevant higher education reports, news, and publications.
Prepare PowerPoint presentations, memos, and other materials to communicate research findings and support the work of the research team.
Support with planning and logistics for convenings.
Collaborate with and provide assistance to other departments and staff as needed.
Attend select external meetings and events to stay informed about emerging research and trends in higher education and share key takeaways with the research team.