Background

PolicyLink is a national research and action institute advancing racial and economic equity by Lifting Up What Works®. PolicyLink collaborates with a broad range of partners to implement strategies to ensure that everyone — including those from low-income communities of color — can contribute to and benefit from economic growth and prosperity.

PolicyLink operates a summer internship program for continuing graduate students (master's or doctoral) in public policy, urban planning, and related fields. Internships are paid and the duration is generally 10 weeks. PolicyLink occasionally hosts interns during the academic year, depending on project needs and student interest. 

We strive to provide each intern with two main opportunities: 1) a meaningful and challenging assignment (or set of assignments) that provides a chance to apply and hone the skills they are learning in graduate school to influence public policy; and 2) the opportunity to learn about the process of policy change and the way that PolicyLink accomplishes our mission of advancing economic, social, and racial equity through policy change.

Each intern plays an integral role in helping our organization further policy impact through research, communications, capacity building, and advocacy. We have hosted interns from nearly 20 different universities and colleges, in programs such as urban planning, public policy, public health, community development, information management, and journalism/communications.

Interns gain insight into the field by assuming responsibility for a project under the guidance of experienced professionals. This year, four internship positions are based in our Oakland office and one in New York. The internship starts June 3 and ends August 9. Review the PolicyLink website (www.policylink.org) to learn more about our work.

Position
 
PolicyLink is seeking a continuing graduate student intern to provide research support for the All-In Cities Anti-Displacement Policy Network. Launched in April 2018, this network comprises city staff, local electeds, and community partners from 10 places around the country who are committed to addressing the displacement challenges for low-income renters and people of color in their communities. The network will be wrapping up its first year in May 2019. The research intern will assist in gathering, organizing, and documenting information created during the first year of the network. This may include reviewing notes, conducting interviews with network members, and collecting background research and data. This information will be used to develop resources for the broader field of advocates and organizers working on anti-displacement strategies in their communities, and/or document the work of participants in this network in order to assess the effectiveness of the network and to share success stories and lessons learned with the broader field.

Assignments will include:

• Researching a range of strategies, policy best practices, and place-based examples related to anti-displacement strategies for renters, low-income homeowners, local businesses, and cultural and religious institutions to inform city strategies.
• Collecting information to assist in evaluating anti-displacement efforts of cities participating in the network.

This is an emerging body of work that may require some co-development of activities and deliverables.

Desired qualifications and skills:

• Continuing graduate student in urban planning, public policy, or related field
• Commitment to economic and social equity
• Some experience or exposure to displacement and housing justice issues
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Quantitative and qualitative research experience and strong analytical skills
• Good team player
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and take initiative

Application Process

PolicyLink is accepting applications for summer 2019 internships. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2019. Candidates may apply for up to two internship opportunities. 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO THIS INTERNSHIP

Please submit the application components in a single document so we can print double-sided. Interviews will take place during the months of February and March. Applicants will be contacted by telephone to schedule an interview that will take place in person or over the telephone. 

Please note: Only candidates selected for an interview will be notified. 

If you have additional questions, please email internships@policylink.org. Please do not use this email address to apply for an internship; your application will not be considered. 

PolicyLink is committed to building and maintaining a diverse staff and a welcoming workplace.