Union of Concerned Scientists
Scientific Integrity Internship - Washington, DC Office
Date Offered: Six months beginning in January or February 2010, with the possibility of extension.
Description:
The scientific community over the past several years has witnessed significant manipulation, suppression, and distortion of federal government agency science research and federal advisory committees and the censorship of scientists. President Obama has pledged to "restore science to its rightful place." But this task is complex.
The UCS Scientific Integrity Program (SIP) works to create a thriving federal scientific enterprise by organizing scientists to educate decision makers about the problem and needed reforms, researching and publicizing potential abuses of science, and working to implement systemic changes that will restore scientific integrity to federal policy making.
The SIP intern works with the SIP team to help raise awareness about and understanding of political interference in science with policy makers, the media, and the general public. The intern will take on minor and support major outreach, legislative, and research projects that give scientists and non-scientists alike a better understanding of the use and misuse of science and the real-world consequences of political interference in science.
The intern may take on specific research projects in science and science policy; draft articles for the website and UCS publications; organize events and coalition meetings; analyze how science is used to make specific policy decisions; and assist with legislative efforts. As the program is both dynamic and collaborative, the intern will have significant opportunity to take on new projects as they arise. The internship description will be revised as needed based both on the needs of the program and the skills of the intern. This internship is an excellent opportunity to learn the ins and outs of science policy research, community organizing, national media campaigns, and legislative and administrative reform. Individuals with post-graduate education, college graduates, and highly-motivated undergraduates are all encouraged to apply.
Basic Qualifications:
Candidates should be able to demonstrate a comfort with scientific topics and strong research skills. Significant outreach, organizing, or volunteer experience for non-profit organizations or political campaigns is strongly preferred. Robust written and oral communications abilities, experience working in an office, and solid computer skills are required.
Most of all, candidates should have a clear understanding of the scientific process and current threats to the integrity of federal government science, a working knowledge of and interest in the way in which the Executive and Legislative branches of the U.S. government function, and a demonstrable commitment to working in the public interest/non-profit sector.
Hours and Pay:
35 hours per week; monthly stipend of $2,080 with BA or BS, higher with advanced degree.
To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter referencing where you learned of this opening, resume, and two writing samples (at least one non-academic sample required) by January 18, 2010 to internship(at)ucsusa.org and include "SIP Internship" in the subject line. In your cover letter, please be sure to address your non-laboratory research experience.