Intern (Masters and PhD Students), National Center for Systemic Improvement

About the role#

This part-time internship supports the National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI) at the American Institutes for Research. The NCSI provides technical assistance to state education agencies to help them establish and meet high expectations for students with disabilities. This role is designed for graduate students interested in special education leadership, systems-level improvement, and evidence-based practices. The internship runs from October 2026 through May 2027.

What you'll do#

• Support projects focused on the education of students with disabilities and state-level special education systems.
• Review, synthesize, and organize research, policy, and guidance relevant to special education leadership.
• Develop tools, materials, presentations, and briefs for internal and external audiences.
• Participate in team meetings, professional learning opportunities, and mentorship activities.
• Analyze problems of practice to identify evidence-based strategies that improve outcomes for children and youth with disabilities.
• Complete a culminating project aligned with NCSI priorities.

What you'll need#

• Current enrollment in a master's or doctoral program in special education, educational leadership, public policy, disability studies, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated interest in leadership, policy, systems improvement, or state-level work.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to synthesize information clearly.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid or remote environment.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks to meet deadlines.
• A commitment to improving outcomes for students with disabilities and the systems that serve them.

Location & details#

• Modality: This position is remote within the United States or based at our offices in Arlington, VA; Chapel Hill, NC; Chicago, IL; Rockville, MD; Sacramento, CA; Waltham, MA; or Austin, TX.
• Schedule: Part-time during standard business hours. This position is not intended for work performed exclusively outside of normal business hours.
• Compensation: $30.00 per hour for doctoral students; $25.00 per hour for master's students.
• Requirements: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. Candidates may be subject to reference and background checks.