Join AIR as a part-time Researcher Intern to support a project for the National Center for Systemic Improvement (NCSI). The NCSI supports state education agencies (SEAs) to best use their general supervision and professional development systems to establish and meet high expectations for every student with a disability by providing universal, targeted, and intensive technical assistance. This internship is designed for graduate students interested in special education leadership, state education agency work, systems-level improvement, and evidence-based practices that improve outcomes for children and youth with disabilities.

This staff person will contribute to ongoing projects, participate in structured professional learning and mentorship, and complete a culminating project aligned to NCSI priorities. This part-time internship is expected to begin in October 2026 and conclude in May 2027. Interns must be available to work part-time during standard business hours on weekdays to support collaboration with project staff, participate in meetings, and engage in professional learning activities.

This position is not intended for work performed exclusively during evenings or outside normal business hours. S. office locations .

S. territories. About AIR: Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally.

We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Responsibilities

: The

for the position include: Support projects related to the education of students with disabilities, with emphasis on state education agencies and special education systems-level work. Assist with reviewing, synthesizing, and organizing research, policy, guidance, and other resources relevant to special education leadership and improvement efforts. Contribute to the development of tools, materials, presentations, briefs, and other products for internal and external audiences.

Participate in team meetings, professional learning opportunities, and mentorship activities with leaders in special education and related fields. Help analyze problems of practice and identify evidence-based strategies that support improved services, systems, and outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. Collaborate with project staff to complete assigned tasks, monitor timelines, and communicate progress on internship activities.

Complete a culminating project aligned with the priorities of NCSI. Perform other related duties in support of learning goals and organizational needs.

Qualifications

: Successful candidates will demonstrate the following

Requirements

through their educational professional, personal, and volunteer experiences: Must currently enrolled in a masters or doctoral program in special education, educational leadership, public policy, disability studies, education policy, or a closely related field focused on the education and development of students with disabilities. Demonstrated interest in leadership, policy, systems improvement, or state-level work related to special education. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize information clearly for different audiences.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid or remote professional environment. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Experience with literature reviews, policy analysis, data-informed decision-making, or program support.

Intern (Masters and PhD Students), National Center for Systemic Improvement