Research Analysis Intern

Description

About the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES): Our mission is to secure a safe and stable climate by accelerating the transition to a thriving, just, and resilient low-carbon economy. We are widely recognized as an influential voice on climate issues, a trusted convener, and a credible source of expertise and analysis. We work closely with international climate negotiators; federal, state, and local policymakers; executives of Fortune 500 businesses; and a wide range of other stakeholders to advance strong policy and action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote clean energy, and strengthen resilience to climate impacts. C2ES is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization.

Our organizational values: We are ambitious and practical, advancing effective solutions that push the boundaries of the achievable. We are open-minded and inclusive, seeking out and considering a wide range of voices, views, and approaches. We are people-focused, dedicated to improving human well-being and recognizing that respect and empathy are central to success. We are one team, working collaboratively, communicating openly, making ourselves accessible to each other, and treating one another with kindness and respect.

Job Description: C2ES seeks a highly qualified and committed individual to fill the positions of Research Analysis Intern to support the organization’s research and analysis on climate policy, clean energy technologies, and pathways to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. The intern will work closely with C2ES researchers on projects related to decarbonization technologies, energy systems, and climate policy design. This role is particularly well suited for students interested in the intersection of technology innovation, economic analysis, and public policy. This intern will report to the Director of Energy Analysis.

Requirements

Major responsibilities:

• Support C2ES' research and analytical work to inform the ongoing federal permitting reform debate;
• Conduct literature reviews and landscape scans of emerging climate and energy technologies, policies, and market trends;
• Track developments in key areas of climate innovation, such as advanced nuclear, geothermal energy, hydrogen and low-carbon fuels, carbon capture technologies, and energy storage;
• Compile and synthesize open-source information from academic studies, industry reports, policy analyses, and news sources to produce concise research summaries.
• Develop and contribute to written material, including blog posts, other topical web content, and policy briefs, with a goal of having specific deliverables authored by the intern;
• Help translate technical or complex subject matter into accessible insights for policymakers, companies, and the broader public;
• Attend and inform the Policy and Outreach team about relevant events in Washington by other think tanks, advocacy groups, Congress and federal agencies.

Desired Qualifications:

• Enrolled in, or completed a bachelor's degree or higher (with a preference given to graduate students) in one of the following fields: technology, engineering, energy systems, environmental or energy policy, or other related subject;
• Demonstrated interest in climate change, energy systems, or clean technology innovation.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and interest in stakeholder engagement;
• Interdisciplinary understanding of climate change (technology, politics, economics, etc.);
• Top-notch writing, editing, research, and analytic skills;
• Ability to sort through dense and complicated information quickly;
• Strong attention to detail;
• Willingness to learn and to pitch in at all levels.

Internship type:

• Preferences will be given to local applicants. Internships can be local at our office: 1400 K Street NW. Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20005. Or remote from the following States: CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, IL, OH, MA, MD, MI, MN, NC, NY, PA, TX, UT, VA, and WA.
• Full-time internship up to 37.5 hours per week (following C2ES HQ office hours) during Summer 2026 (May 2026 – August 2026 with a flexible end date). Part-time can also be considered.
• Hourly Wage $20.00
• Transportation stipend for interns working from the C2ES Office.

To apply, please upload a cover letter, transcripts, resume, and writing sample to our website.

We also are fully committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. We believe we will only be effective in developing and advocating for climate solutions if we have a diverse range of voices and perspectives represented within C2ES, in our work, and among our partners. C2ES is committed to creating and growing a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within our organization and among the stakeholders we collaborate with and convene. By fostering this culture, we can enhance our work and amplify our impact. We encourage individuals of all races, ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, sexual identities, and abilities to apply for this position. For more on C2ES’s DEIJ policy, visit: https://www.c2es.org/about/diversity-equity-inclusion-and-justice.