Energy & Climate Intern, Spring 2027
Period: January-May 2027 (Part-Time)
Location: Washington, DC Deadline for Application: November 5, 2026
About ORF America
The Observer Research Foundation America (ORF America) is an independent, non-partisan, and nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing policy challenges facing the United States, India, and their partners in a rapidly changing world. It produces research, curates diverse and inclusive platforms, and develops networks for cooperation between the developed and developing worlds based on common values and shared interests.
ORF America was established in 2020 and is an overseas affiliate of the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), India’s premier non-government think tank. Its areas of focus include strategic and security affairs; technology policy; climate, energy, and sustainability; and economic policy. ORF America is an equal opportunity employer and hires staff without regard to race, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability.
Paid Spring Internship Program
Fall and spring internships at ORF America allow undergraduate and graduate students in the Washington DC area an opportunity for academic, professional, and personal development. Interns work closely with fellows and program managers to assist with research, writing, communications and other programming tasks.
We are looking for an intern to provide research and administrative support to our Energy & Climate program at ORF America during the spring of 2027. The intern will contribute to research and writing on emerging energy and climate policy issues, with a focus on the geopolitical dimensions of global energy systems. The role will involve tracking developments relevant to policymakers, and support the program’s external engagement and events. This paid internship will require in-person work at ORF America’s office in Washington, DC.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Assisting with research and writing on current policy developments related to energy policy
Monitoring news reports and synthesizing developments for policy audiences
Conducting primary and secondary source data collection
Contributing to social media and external outreach
Assisting with programming, including the regular updating and refining of website and contacts database
Providing administrative and logistical support for events and assisting with other tasks as requested
Qualifications
Enrollment in a relevant graduate degree program at an accredited college or university in the Washington DC area
Eligibility to work in the United States; ORF America does not sponsor visas for interns
Background in international relations, economics, public policy, history, political science, or another relevant field
Demonstrated interest in energy, climate, and sustainability policy, particularly in an international or geopolitical context
Experience conducting academic or policy research, including collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing information from multiple sources on energy markets, emerging energy technologies, and related policy developments
Strong analytical, writing, and editing skills, with attention to detail
Ability to communicate complex policy developments clearly to a general or policy-oriented audience
Fluency in English
Ability to work collaboratively, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines
Proficiency in basic computer programs (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Suite)
Proficiency in data visualization tools such as Flourish is a plus
Compensation
This position is paid on an hourly basis ($20/hour). Interns will be expected to work 15 hours/week.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send their resume, a cover letter (no more than a page), and writing sample in a single PDF document to orfamerica@orfamerica.org. Applicants are encouraged to submit a writing sample that demonstrates their interests, research, analytical, or policy writing skills. Please include: “Spring 2027: Energy & Climate Internship” in the subject line. ORF America will contact only those candidates who are extended an interview.