CV Research and Outreach Intern – Washington, D.C.
Organization: Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)
Position Title: CV Research and Outreach Intern
Location: Washington, D.C.
Hours & Compensation: Forty hours per week. Monthly salary of between $1,733 and $2,080 based on level of education.
Position Dates: Three-month position.
Application Deadline: April 15, 2013 or until filled.
Organization Overview:
The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet’s most pressing problems. Joining with citizens across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.
What began as a collaboration between students and faculty members at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1969 is now an alliance of more than 400,000 citizens and scientists. UCS members are people from all walks of life: parents and businesspeople, biologists and physicists, teachers and students. Our members understand that scientific analysis—not political calculations or corporate hype—should guide our efforts to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices.
Our experts work on some of the most complex and daunting problems in our history: stemming the tide of global warming, finding sustainable ways to feed, power and transport ourselves, and reducing the threat of catastrophic war. Our achievements over the decades show that thoughtful action based on the best available science can help safeguard our future and the future of our planet.
Description:
The CV Research & Outreach Intern will have the opportunity to support and advance several core team projects dedicated toward our primary campaign goal of cutting projected oil use in half over the next 20 years.
Through this internship, the student will hone his/her ability to communicate complex energy and environmental issues in both writing and oral presentations and develop stronger research skills on technical and policy issues. The student will deepen his/her understanding of clean vehicles and fuels technology and policy, and how clean transportation can be a key climate change solution. The intern will also get a behind the scenes look at the operations of a large non-profit with multiple offices across the country. In addition, the intern will have opportunities to attend a variety of congressional hearings, coalition meetings, and events and other activities that provide networking and social space for young scientists or policy-focused students in the energy/environment arena.
Responsibilities:
Potential projects include:
- Assist California staff in organizing a forum to draw a variety of voices with expertise in science and technology, policy and media into a conversation about oil, science and our democracy. This forum will include a public town-hall component, as well as additional expert workshops and follow-on activities. Potential topics for exploration include the role of science, technology, industry, and policy in solving the challenges posed by oil use; ways to ensure that science on oil costs and solutions is informing the public and policymakers within the changing media landscape.
- Assist in researching “oil solutions experts,” potentially including automotive engineers, hydrogen suppliers, cellulosic biofuel producers, chemical engineers, experts within national labs and state government agencies, etc. Work with outreach staff to interview these experts about their work and compile profiles for use in blogs, mini-reports, webinars, and web content.
- Assist analytical staff with additional research projects on the benefits of policies and technologies that can cut US oil use.
- Assist with recruitment and vetting of scientists and engineers to help support California clean fuels policies.
- Provide rapid response to key political developments, media stories, and constituent inquiries as back-up for permanent staff.
- Assist in drafting content for website, emails to members and coalition partners.
- Attend events with UCS outreach staff to represent organization to members and potential members, particularly young scientists and engineers interested in policy, as well as furthering partnerships with minority technical societies (National Society of Black Engineers, Society of Women in Engineering, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, MAES).
Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this internship would possess an ability to simultaneously manage and prioritize many tasks as well as excellent written and oral communications skills and ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences. Applicants should also demonstrate strong internet research skills, a positive, team-oriented attitude, and ability to work in an environment that can become fast-paced. Interest and/or experience working on fuel, transportation, or environmental issues a plus.
Individuals from demographic groups underrepresented in science and environmental advocacy and from public universities are especially encouraged to apply. College students and recent graduates are eligible to apply for this competitive internship.
How to Apply: Please submit a cover letter, salary requirements, how you learned about the position and resume via email to [email protected]and include “CV Research and Outreach Intern” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please.
