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Design Research Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Phonic

Research Intern (Fall 2026)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Role As a Research Intern at Phonic, you'll work directly on the core problems that make Phonic ... Design and run rigorous experiments that analyze architectural trade-offs to understand how design ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Research Intern

Torrance, CA · On-site

$30 - $32.65/hr

Our Science and Technology team is seeking an intern within the Image Quality group to investigate ... Design, develop, and implement image reconstruction and artifact reduction algorithms to meet ...

AEG

Intern - Market Research & Insights

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Overview: $20 per hour 30 hours/week for 15 weeks The Market Research Intern will focus on ... Dashboard Design & Maintenance: Create and update Qualtrics dashboards to assist in communicating ...

AARP

Research Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$28/hr

... design, strategic planning, and thought leadership development * Conduct desk research to identify impact/performance metrics, as well as suitable benchmarks, for social innovations/initiatives ...

OSI Systems

Research Intern

Torrance, CA

$30 - $32.65/hr

Our Science and Technology team is seeking an intern within the Image Quality group to investigate ... Design, develop, and implement image reconstruction and artifact reduction algorithms to meet ...

Incredible Dwellings and Beyond

Be Seen First

Interior Design Intern

Park City, UT · On-site

$12/hr

We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Interior Design Intern to join our boutique design team ... Design Research: Conduct market and product research for senior designers as needed to support ...

Enovix

R&D Intern

Fremont, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Battery R&D Internship Enovix is seeking an R&D Intern to support the design, fabrication, testing, and analysis of lithium-ion batteries with silicon-based anodes. This role is well suited for a PhD ...

Enovix Corporation

R&D Intern

Fremont, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Battery R&D Internship Enovix is seeking an R&D Intern to support the design, fabrication, testing, and analysis of lithium-ion batteries with silicon-based anodes. This role is well suited for a PhD ...

Enovix Corporation

R&D Intern

Fremont, CA

$40 - $45/hr

Battery R&D Internship Enovix is seeking an R&D Intern to support the design, fabrication, testing, and analysis of lithium-ion batteries with silicon-based anodes. This role is well suited for a PhD ...

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How much do design research intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for design research intern in the United States is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a UX research internship?

To secure a UX research internship, candidates should develop skills in user research methods, data analysis, and design tools like Figma or Sketch. Gaining experience through academic projects, personal portfolios, or relevant coursework, and applying to internships via company websites or job boards, increases chances of selection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Design Research Intern position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Research Intern, you need a strong foundation in user-centered design principles, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and a relevant academic background in design, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, Miro, and user research platforms such as UserTesting is highly valuable. Strong communication, curiosity, adaptability, and attention to detail are standout soft skills for this role. These capabilities are crucial for gathering actionable insights, collaborating effectively, and informing impactful design solutions.

What kind of projects or tasks can I expect to work on as a Design Research Intern?

As a Design Research Intern, you can expect to assist with planning and conducting user interviews, usability tests, surveys, and competitive analyses. You'll help synthesize research findings into actionable insights that guide design decisions, and collaborate closely with designers, product managers, and engineers. Often, you'll participate in brainstorming sessions, create presentation materials, and help document user journeys and personas. This variety of hands-on experiences will build your skills in both research and design thinking, while allowing you to make meaningful contributions to ongoing projects.

Can I be an intern with no experience?

Design Research Intern positions often do not require extensive experience and may be suitable for students or entry-level candidates. Relevant skills such as basic research methods, curiosity, and proficiency with tools like surveys or interviews can be enough to qualify. Internships typically focus on learning and skill development, making prior experience less critical.

What does a Design Research Intern do?

A Design Research Intern supports the research process by gathering user insights, conducting interviews, analyzing data, and assisting with usability testing. They work closely with designers, product teams, and stakeholders to understand user needs and inform design decisions. Responsibilities may include creating research reports, synthesizing findings, and helping to develop user personas. The role provides hands-on experience in user-centered design and research methodologies.

What do design interns do?

Design research interns assist in gathering and analyzing user data to inform product and interface design. They often conduct user interviews, usability testing, and create reports using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma, supporting the design team in developing user-centered solutions.

What are the big 4 internships?

The 'Big 4' internships typically refer to internship programs at the four largest professional services firms: Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), and KPMG. These firms offer internships in areas such as consulting, audit, tax, and advisory, providing valuable experience for students pursuing careers in accounting, finance, and consulting. For a Design Research Intern, gaining experience at these firms can involve working on client projects, developing research skills, and understanding industry standards.
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Design Research Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Research Intern job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Internship, 50% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,304 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Research Intern, Urban Wildlife Institute

Lincoln Park Zoological Society

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year.
General Summary
The Urban Wildlife Institute Research intern will gain valuable virtual and hands-on experience by assisting the Urban Wildlife Institute with several field research projects both on the zoo grounds and in the Greater Chicago area. This position will also conduct fieldwork in the Greater Chicago area (transportation provided) on projects related to biodiversity monitoring using cameras and acoustic recorders for birds and bats, human-wildlife interactions using surveys, as well as projects related to One Health, such as rat habitat monitoring. The intern will enter the data associated with these projects and maintain related research equipment. Some virtual work will be likely, and these projects may include tagging and analyzing images from wildlife cameras, uploading and entering field-collected data, analyzing acoustic recordings for birds and bats, as well as literature searches. The intern will have an opportunity to design and execute a unique project of interest, under the guidance of UWI staff. In addition to scientific monitoring, you will gain experience communicating the importance of urban nature by interacting with learners of various ages, backgrounds and knowledge levels, and will gain experience training other interns and volunteers. The intern should be self-motivated, adaptable, and enthusiastic to work both in the field and in front of a computer, and some independent, virtual work is expected.
This position requires accessing areas that are off trail on uneven terrain, through sometimes thick vegetation, and being outdoors in all weather conditions. Must be able to transport equipment of up to 10 lbs from the vehicle to field site at times off pathways and over uneven terrain. This is a year-long, full-time paid position that begins in June 2026. Applications will be reviewed beginning May 5, and will continue until the position is filled. Housing is not provided. Applicants should submit a cover letter and CV or resume.
DURATION: July 2026-May 2027; full time (35hrs/wk)
Learning Objectives
The intern will learn:
  • about urban wildlife ecology and gain experience with field techniques for studying wildlife;
  • how to manage data, interpret collected data, and design and conduct a scientific study;
  • how to communicate science in person and through written communication.

Essential Job Functions
  • Assist with field research projects in the greater Chicago area, including wildlife monitoring using trail cameras and acoustic recorders, human-wildlife interaction research, and rat trapping and habitat surveys;
  • Assist with virtual projects, including trail camera photo review, data management, literature searches, and written scientific communication (e.g., data summaries or blog posts);
  • Assist with on-grounds research projects including Black-crowned Night Heron colony monitoring, bird surveys, bat surveys, and other projects as needed;
  • Perform data entry with high attention to detail and enthusiasm;
  • Test, inventory, and prepare field equipment & supplies;
  • Local travel in Chicago for field projects (transportation provided); comfortable working accompanied in city alleys and urban green spaces;
  • Serve as a credible source of information about our research;
  • Complete a personal project that is mutually agreed upon by the intern and supervisor.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Assist with training of other interns and volunteers when appropriate;
  • Attend Lincoln Park Zoo and/or Urban Wildlife Institute-related activities as necessary;
  • Participate in professional development and networking activities as part of the zoo intern program;
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • The applicant should demonstrate a passion for and understanding of ecology and scientific research;
  • Possess some expertise in field techniques for wildlife research;
  • Possess strong computer, organizational, and interpersonal skills (written and spoken);
  • Willingness to work outside in challenging field conditions (i.e., summer and winter); willingness to work early morning hours as necessary;
  • Able to interact positively and enthusiastically with the public about our research when appropriate; ability to represent Lincoln Park Zoo in a professional manner at all times;
  • Works well in a team environment as well as independently;
  • Self-motivated to stay on task when working virtually;
  • Experience with diverse backgrounds and multicultural environments;
  • Maintain a positive and flexible approach to daily responsibilities;
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.

Educational Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree (completed within two years), preferably in biology, ecology, natural resources, or related field.

Additional Requirements
  • Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, defined as two-weeks after second vaccination of a two-dose vaccine series (Pfizer or Moderna) or two-weeks after a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson)

Preferred Experience
We prefer applicants that:
  • Have conducted or assisted with wildlife ecological studies, including use of remote-triggered cameras and acoustic recorders, or some related fieldwork experience;
  • Are familiar with some software programs, including program R, program MARK, ArcGIS/QGIS, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access;
  • Possess knowledge of Illinois fauna, especially birds and mammals.

OUR COMMITMENT
Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to fostering a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All.
LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS
  • Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
  • Free on-site parking
  • Discounts on event tickets (including free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
  • Quarterly staff social events and "LPZooU" training and educational sessions focused on the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related topics
  • A unique work environment featuring green spaces and regular opportunities to engage with wildlife

Salary: $18.00/hr

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