Remote Researcher Intern — Special Education Policy

American Institutes for Research; United States; Hybrid; USD 34,440 - 41,328; Part time

Job summary

American Institutes for Research seeks an Intern (Masters and PhD Students) for the National Center for Systemic Improvement. This part-time Researcher Intern role supports state education agencies and disability-focused systems-level work.

The position runs Oct 2026–May 2027, with remote or office options across the U.S., and requires graduate enrollment in relevant fields. Collaboration, structured learning, and a culminating project are integral parts of the experience.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a masters or doctoral program in special education, educational leadership, public policy, disability studies, education policy, or a closely related field focused on the education and development of students with disabilities.
• Demonstrated interest in leadership, policy, systems improvement, or state-level work related to special education.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize information clearly for different audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid or remote professional environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Experience with literature reviews, policy analysis, data-informed decision-making, or program support.
• Commitment to improving outcomes for students with disabilities, their families, and the systems that serve them.

Responsibilities

• Support projects related to the education of students with disabilities, with emphasis on state education agencies and special education systems-level work.
• Assist with reviewing, synthesizing, and organizing research, policy, guidance, and other resources relevant to special education leadership and improvement efforts.
• Contribute to the development of tools, materials, presentations, briefs, and other products for internal and external audiences.
• Participate in team meetings, professional learning opportunities, and mentorship activities with leaders in special education and related fields.
• Help analyze problems of practice and identify evidence-based strategies that support improved services, systems, and outcomes for children and youth with disabilities.
• Collaborate with project staff to complete assigned tasks, monitor timelines, and communicate progress on internship activities.
• Complete a culminating project aligned with the priorities of NCSI.
• Perform other related duties in support of learning goals and organizational needs.

Job description

American Institutes for Research seeks an Intern (Masters and PhD Students) for the National Center for Systemic Improvement. This part-time Researcher Intern role supports state education agencies and disability-focused systems-level work.

The position runs Oct 2026–May 2027, with remote or office options across the U.S., and requires graduate enrollment in relevant fields. Collaboration, structured learning, and a culminating project are integral parts of the experience.