"The Lab @ DC is an applied research and design team embedded in DC government and composed of civic design researchers, social scientists, and data scientists. We partner with agencies in DC government to help design, launch, and evaluate District programs with a resident-centered lens. Our projects span all policy areas. We believe DC residents deserve a government that asks questions, tests policies, and iteratively improves how it serves the community. The Lab @ DC meets our city's most critical problems with scientific methods, civic design, and authentic partnership with District agencies and residents. 

"Each summer, we welcome 2-4 graduate-level students to join our team as Research Assistants (RAs). Each RA will be assigned an anchor project—something that they can contribute to substantively over the course of the summer—and another two to three smaller projects to support. Our goal is to provide both a breadth and depth of exposure to The Lab’s portfolio.

"Eligibility: We are looking for graduate students (including those who will start programs Fall 2026 or have graduated in May 2026). 

"Logistics: RAs work full-time (i.e. 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday, 9am – 5pm) for approximately 10 weeks between early June and mid-August. We are in the office 4 days per week and telework 1 day per week. Our offices are in L’Enfant Plaza. We are unfortunately unable to provide funding given our current budget climate; these are volunteer positions."

Please complete our application form by March 2, 2026, 11:59PM ET. See the complete posting online.