PhD Policy internships (apply online) 

DBI offers full-time, three-month internships for current PhD students. You will gain exposure to a broad range of policy areas, while developing skills in research, analysis, events organising, teamwork and stakeholder engagement.

  • Support the planning and delivery of policy-focused events and retreats.
  • Conduct background qualitative and/or quantitative research and analysis on varied policy topics.
  • Contribute to rapid evidence reviews, briefing notes and presentations.
  • Act as rapporteur at events and support event write-ups and reports.
  • Draft accessible written outputs, including digital content.
  • Engage with policymakers, academics, and project partners.
  • Attend an ‘Evidence into Policy’ interactive training session, and take part in a visit to Whitehall, alongside other DBI interns and interested students.

Dates and deadlines

  • April – July 2026 
  • July – September 2026
  • September – December 2026

Current PhDs from across academic disciplines who have the relevant skills, interest, and availability are welcome to apply.

Interns must be able to work hybrid from the DBI offices at Downing College, Cambridge. Unfortunately, we cannot arrange accommodation in Cambridge.

Funding for the internship should be provided via the applicant’s funding body. For example, the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) can allow PhD students to extend their current PhD by 3 months to gain work experience. Students continue to receive funding (their stipend) for the duration of their internship, and they can also apply for additional funding to support their participation, for example travel costs

Interns will be provided with a free lunch at Downing College on the days they are working on-site." 

The deadline for all applications for our PhD internships is 11.59am on Sunday 5 April 2026. 

Find out more and apply via the link below. 

Apply online.