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Summer Research Program Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

The Summer Associate program will be approximately 8 weeks long and begin in Summer 2027. We're ... Strong quantitative, research, problem-solving, and written communication skills. * Ability to work ...

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Summer Research Program information

What is a summer research program?

A Summer Research Program is a structured opportunity, often hosted by universities or research institutions, that allows students to gain hands-on research experience during the summer months. Participants work closely with faculty or research staff on specific projects, learning research methods and contributing to ongoing studies. These programs are designed to help students develop critical thinking, technical skills, and a deeper understanding of a particular field. They often culminate in presentations or reports, and can be valuable for those considering graduate school or research careers.

What types of projects and day-to-day tasks can participants expect in a summer research program?

Participants in a Summer Research Program typically engage in hands-on research activities, such as conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating with faculty or graduate student mentors. Daily tasks may involve literature reviews, lab work, attending seminars, and presenting findings during group meetings. The program fosters teamwork and independent problem-solving, giving participants exposure to real-world research environments and methodologies. This experience is valuable for building technical skills and professional networks, often paving the way for future academic or research opportunities.

What is the difference between Summer Research Program vs Research Intern?

AspectSummer Research ProgramResearch Intern
CredentialsTypically undergraduate or graduate students; minimal certifications requiredSimilar; often students or early-career professionals
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research centers, universitiesResearch labs, corporate R&D, academic institutions
DurationUsually 8-12 weeks during summerVaries from a few weeks to several months
PurposeEducational experience, skill development, networkingHands-on research, project contribution, skill building

Both Summer Research Programs and Research Internships offer valuable research experience for students and early-career individuals. While they share similar credentials and work environments, Summer Research Programs are typically structured as short-term, educational summer experiences at academic institutions, whereas Research Internships can be more varied in duration and may occur in corporate or research settings. Understanding these differences can help applicants choose the best opportunity for their career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a summer research program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Summer Research Program, you need a solid academic background in your field of study, strong analytical skills, and prior coursework or experience relevant to the research area. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory techniques, or relevant research methodologies is often required. Strong communication, curiosity, and time management skills help participants collaborate effectively and manage independent projects. These abilities are crucial for making meaningful research contributions and maximizing learning during the program.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Program jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Research Program jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Summer Research Program jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Summer Research Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Research Program job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Summer 2027 Litigation Intern

NAACP LDF Unpaid

Washington, DC

Temporary, Internship

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) is the country’s first and foremost civil and human rights law organization. Founded in 1940 under the leadership of Thurgood Marshall, who subsequently became the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice, LDF was launched at a time when the nation’s aspirations for equality and due process of law were stifled by widespread state-sponsored racial inequality. From that era to the present, LDF’s mission has been transformative — to achieve racial justice, equality, and an inclusive society.

LDF’s litigation, public policy advocacy, and public education programs in the substantive areas of criminal justice, economic justice, education, and political participation seek to ensure the fundamental and basic human rights of all people to quality education, economic opportunity, the right to vote and fully participate in democracy, and the right to a fair and just judicial system. LDF continues to make an impact in the area of public service and was recognized by Fast Company as one of its 2023 Brands That Matter under its public service category.

The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (“LDF”) is currently accepting applications from law students for 2027 summer litigation internships for the New York, Washington D.C., and Atlanta offices. Summer interns will be in-person in their assigned office two days a week. Summer litigation interns will be responsible for legal research, memorandum writing, factual investigation, development of educational and outreach materials, discovery review, and a host of other needs that arise in LDF’s litigation and advocacy efforts in the areas of Education, Political Participation, Economic Justice, and Criminal Justice. Litigation interns at LDF will work primarily on litigation-related projects in LDF’s Litigation and Strategic Initiatives Departments. Summer interns will be exposed to a variety of activities within the broader national civil rights coalition, including joining a series of brown bag luncheons featuring prominent civil rights and public interest attorneys.

This is an unpaid internship. However, in its discretion, LDF may provide appropriate funding to those who demonstrate they are unable to secure funding from their law school’s public interest programs or other appropriate sources. We therefore encourage interested applicants to apply regardless of whether they are able to obtain such funding. Although LDF prefers to hire second-year law students, we will consider first-year law students. Interns are expected to work for at least ten (10) weeks during the summer, but other arrangements may be accommodated on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants should include:

  • Cover letter
  • Résumé
  • 5- to 10-page writing sample
  • A list of three references

Applications are due by Friday, October 2, 2026 and we encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible.

Please note in your cover letter whether you would like to be based in New York, Washington D.C., or Atlanta.

As part of LDF’s long-standing commitment to training the next generation of civil rights attorneys, LDF, through our internship program, relies on assistance from law students to support our litigation and advocacy efforts. If you plan to pursue a career in racial justice and civil rights law, we want to hear from you.