Research Intern: Winter 2015 / Spring 2016

About Physicians for Human Rights

For nearly 30 years, Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) has used science and medicine to document and call attention to mass atrocities and severe human rights violations.

A Nobel Peace Prize co-laureate, PHR is a global organization founded on the idea that health professionals, with their specialized skills, ethical duties, and credible voices, are uniquely positioned to stop human rights violations. PHR’s investigations and expertise are used to advocate for the protection of persecuted health workers and medical facilities under attack, prevent torture, document mass atrocities, and hold those who violate human rights accountable.

For more information about PHR, please see our website at www.physiciansforhumanrights.org.

Internship Summary

PHR’s research unit is seeking one intern for a minimum of 20 hours/week, with a minimum commitment of 2 months. Reporting to PHR’s senior researcher, this intern will assist with a variety of projects relating to both international and domestic policy matters. Internship responsibilities will include conducting in-depth background research on attacks on health care around the world, assisting with background research for PHR investigations and reports, synthesizing material from a variety of sources, and potentially drafting blog posts, background sections for reports, and other media.

Responsibilities

The intern may be involved in some or all of the following tasks and projects:

• Assist with research regarding PHR’s investigations in Burma, the United States, Mexico, and elsewhere.
• Monitor and document relevant current events for internal discussion.
• Contribute to the development of advocacy strategies to promote PHR’s voice.
• Assist research staff with communications and strategic partnerships to amplify policy positions.
• Collaborate with PHR staff on any additional events or projects that may arise.
• Attend meetings at the United Nations or elsewhere as needed.

Qualifications and Experience

• Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree; program of study specializing in international development/relations, public policy, law, human rights, or related field preferred but not required.
• Ability to read/speak Spanish, French, or Burmese preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated interest in and commitment to human rights.
• Exceptional analytical, writing, and verbal skills; superior research skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, effectively, and professionally with PHR staff and external partners.
• Mature judgment, strong sense of integrity, initiative, and a self-starter.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and follow-through.
• Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Flexibility and willingness to work on a wide variety of projects as needed.

Location and Hours

• The research intern will be based in PHR’s New York City Office.
• This unpaid internship will require a minimum of 20 hours/week during the semester. PHR staff will assist with any paperwork required for institutional credit or external scholarships/fellowships.
• The position will require at least a 2-month commitment, with longer commitments preferred.

Physicians for Human Rights is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in its work and staff.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please send a cover letter and resume to resumes@phrusa.org. Include “Research Intern Winter 2015/Spring 2016” in the subject line.