Applications are invited for the Niskanen Center Internship Program 2025. The application deadline is April 4, 2025!
About The Niskanen Center
The Niskanen Center was recognized by TIME Magazine in 2023 as “The Most Interesting Think Tank in American Politics.” This organization advocates for policies that promote prosperity, opportunity, and human flourishing. It operates on the principle that free markets and effective governance are interdependent.
The Niskanen Center offers a constructive and forward-thinking approach to addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Americans in the 21st century. These include slow economic growth, economic insecurity, bureaucratic inefficiencies, mass incarceration, crime rates, climate change, energy constraints, unaffordable housing and healthcare, and a dysfunctional immigration system.
While many think tanks focus solely on policy research, Niskanen stands out by integrating policy development, a broader political economy vision, and direct advocacy. As a relatively young and agile organization, it effectively combines these elements, allowing each to inform and strengthen the others.
The center primarily engages with government leaders, advocates, and media, recognizing their critical role in shaping policy outcomes.
Internship Description
The organization is looking for interns who align with their vision and are passionate about contributing to impactful policy work. The ideal candidates will possess the following qualities:
- Visionary Thinkers: Individuals who support the principles of liberal democracy and an open society, and are driven to develop policies that promote social insurance, encourage market competition, and strengthen state capacity.
- Ideologically Open: Candidates who appreciate diverse viewpoints and are excited about collaborating across different ideological perspectives.
- Collaborative Problem-Solvers: People who thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented setting, and are committed to advancing the organization’s mission through cooperation, dialogue, and continuous learning.
Responsibilities
As a Niskanen intern, you will gain hands-on experience in public policy research, communications, and federal affairs. You will:
- Engage with Thought Leaders: Work alongside policymakers and scholars across the political spectrum to transform innovative ideas into actionable solutions.
- Develop Professionally: Participate in workshops and networking events designed to build your skills and professional network.
- Make an Impact: Contribute to projects addressing pressing issues such as economic insecurity, climate change, mass incarceration, and immigration reform.
Application Process
The organization invites individuals who are passionate about public policy and eager to join a forward-thinking team to apply. By working together, they aim to advance a vision of governance that promotes prosperity, opportunity, and human flourishing.
Please submit the following using the link below:
- Resume
- Identify no more than two policy department interests
- One writing sample (do not exceed 3,000 words)
- Explanation about why you are applying to Niskanen (do not exceed 300 words)
Rolling Application Timeline
- Spring Semester 2025: January 7, 2025- May 2, 2025 — Applications are due by November 8, 2024; we will be notifying applicants on a rolling basis with a final deadline of December 13, 2024 for all offers.
- Summer Semester 2025: May 28, 2025, to August 8, 2025 — Applications are due by March 8, 2025; we will be notifying applicants on a rolling basis with a final deadline of April 4, 2025, for all offers.
- Fall Semester 2025: September 9, 2025, to December 5, 2025 — Applications are due by July 13, 2025; we will be notifying applicants on a rolling basis with a final deadline of August 8, 2025, for all offers.
Please note that semester start and end dates are firm, unless you seek prior approval.
How to Apply?
Interested candidates can apply via this link.
Deadline
The application deadline is April 4, 2025!
