United States of America: Research Intern

IFES is an international, nonprofit organization that supports the building of democratic societies. IFES provides targeted technical assistance to strengthen transitional democracies. Founded in 1987 as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, IFES has developed and implemented comprehensive, collaborative democracy solutions in more than 140 countries.

Project Description:

The IFES internship program is designed to engage both recent graduates and students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in international development, international relations, economics, communications or a related field. The program offers students an insider’s view of the international development field. Students who participate in this program will learn essential skills that are not developed in an academic setting, enabling them to make the transition from academic to professional life. The IFES research intern will specifically work on gathering media reports and conducting research for the ElectionGuide website (www.electionguide.org), as well as contribute to The ACE Electoral Knowledge Network (ACE), the world’s most accessible and globally inclusive online information resource on election policy, planning, organization, and management. Job Responsibilities:

The general duties of the Research Intern include, but are not limited to:

• Researching elections, election laws and news for the ElectionGuide website
• Updating content on ElectionGuide.org
• Monitoring updates on all nationwide international elections
• Update content on the Twitter and Facebook profiles for ElectionGuide.org
• Working on researching and authoring articles for the ElectionGuide.org Digest.
• Assisting in the preparation of website updates and other reports
• Attending and reporting on internal and external events that may inform Election Guide
• Assisting IFES’ representative to the ACE Coordination Unit with tasks associated with ACE facilitation and coordination, including:
  • Facilitating and providing user support to the ACE Practitioners’ Network, a global network of election experts active on the ACE website;
  • Providing research and writing support to contributions to the ACE website;
  • Updating comparative data and electoral materials on the ACE website;
  • Updating social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter; and
  • Developing quarterly ACE English NewsletterAssisting with research initiatives for the Center for Applied Research and Learning in conjunction with program needs and the intern’s skills, as neededQualifications:

Qualifications:

• Excellent research and communication skills
• Proficiency with Word and Excel
• Familiarity with web-based applications a plus
• Foreign language skills an asset

Successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following attributes:

• Detail-oriented and organized.
• Ability to prioritize, take direction, and handle varied tasks within deadlines.
• Strong communicator, both verbally and in writing.
• Collaborative, team-oriented individual.

To Apply:

You must go to www.ifes.org to the Careers section and apply online. Applications are only accepted in this way. Make sure you upload all papers together (ie. cover letter and application, etc.). Resumes are only reviewed and accepted if submitted through our careers page.