Entry Level Qualitative Research Intern Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

The Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research, policy, and advocacy organization committed to building a more equitable and just society through higher education. Through research, advocacy, policy development, and field engagement, IHEP drives systemic change in higher education to advance equitable outcomes and generational impact for communities historically marginalized on the basis of race, ethnicity or income.

ABOUT THE POSITION:

IHEP is seeking a research intern to join our team remotely for the academic year (October 2026 – May 2027). The research team focuses on federal, state, and institutional policies related to racial and socioeconomic equity; postsecondary data and transparency; college access, affordability, success, and value; and projects that further the practical application of promising practices that drive postsecondary attainment, particularly for Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and underserved Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students and students from low-income backgrounds. The Research Intern will support IHEP's research team in conducting quantitative and qualitative research on postsecondary education. This role is designed for students interested in developing research skills and contributing to evidence that informs improvements in higher education. Interns are likely to participate in team and staff meetings, perform literature reviews, participate in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, summarize information from postsecondary-themed events, external meetings, and/or new research studies, support the development of research reports, blogs as well as advocacy materials/efforts on topics such as postsecondary data, college completion and affordability, and support the preparation of convenings.

Although IHEP is headquartered in Washington, D.C., we operate fully remotely on a day-to-day basis and welcome remote applicants for this position.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Support IHEP’s research team with quantitative and qualitative research on postsecondary education issues, including conducting literature reviews, writing blog posts, performing data analyses, and summarizing findings from relevant higher education reports, news, and publications.
• Prepare PowerPoint presentations, memos, and other materials to communicate research findings and support the work of the research team.
• Support with planning and logistics for convenings.
• Collaborate with and provide assistance to other departments and staff as needed.
• Attend select external meetings and events to stay informed about emerging research and trends in higher education and share key takeaways with the research team.

QUALIFICATIONS: We are looking for a combination of the following skills and experience.

• Availability to work part-time, at least 20-25 hours per week, through the fall and spring semesters (October 2026 – May 2027).
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative data analysis, data collection, and higher education data sets preferred.
• Some experience with project management preferred.
• A keen interest in postsecondary education research and advocacy, and to work in an equity-minded organization.
• Excellent organizational and follow-through skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with a dynamic group of partners and consultants.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and experience with video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Microsoft Teams).

WORKING at IHEP:

IHEP recognizes that a talented and inclusive workforce of people with diverse backgrounds and experience benefits individuals, partners, and IHEP as a whole. We recognize that all employees bring their own capabilities, experiences, and characteristics to their work. IHEP believes in treating all individuals with respect and dignity and strives to achieve a supportive environment in which all employees reach their maximum potential. The wide array of perspectives promotes innovation and business success, further supporting the organization’s mission.

IHEP values a healthy work-life balance and offers sick and holiday pay, flexible work arrangements, and a $100 technology stipend. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and the hourly pay range for our internship program is $20-24 per hour.

IHEP is not able to sponsor work permits. Therefore, candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should apply through this site and provide:

1. a cover letter
2. a resume
3. a list of at least three references (including at least one direct supervisor)

We will review applications on a rolling basis, but have a priority deadline to apply by August 28, 2026.  

The Institute for Higher Education Policy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages inclusion and experiential diversity in all facets of the organization’s work.

IHEP participates in E-Verify and confirms all employees are authorized to work in the United States through a Form I-9. For more about your right to work, see this information from the Immigrant and Employee Rights Section of the Department of Justice.