Research Intern - Technology Policy

To be considered for this role, you must apply directly through our online application. 

About the Role

This paid, in-person internship in Washington, DC (25–40 hours per week over 12 weeks) joins Cato’s Technology Policy team, working with scholars Jennifer Huddleston (emerging tech, online speech, competition, privacy), David Inserra (free expression and online content policy), and Matt Mittelsteadt (AI, cybersecurity).

You’ll contribute to research on artificial intelligence, content moderation, platform and social-media regulation, free expression/First Amendment, competition/antitrust, youth online safety, data privacy, and related topics—converting fast-changing policy developments into clear, well-sourced analyses for briefs, op-eds, and events.

Day to day, you’ll monitor bills and rulemakings, synthesize research, and turn developments into clear, publication-ready content for scholars and the public.

Responsibilities

• Stay informed about relevant legislative updates and academic and policy developments.
• Proofread and give feedback on article and policy analysis drafts.
• Participate in various events and working groups focused on technology policy topics.
• Identify and communicate with authors and project contributors.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of internet platforms, social-media regulation, and First Amendment jurisprudence; able to apply these concepts to live policy debates.
• Strong interest in US technology policy and emerging tech (AI, competition/antitrust, privacy, youth online safety); alignment with Cato’s mission.
• Excellent research and policy writing with accurate sourcing and clear, concise language.
• Attention to detail; careful proofreading and citation-checking.
• Self-directed and highly organized—manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Professional communication and sound judgment when working with internal and external contributors.

The Cato Internship Program

Cato’s paid internships are available for undergraduates, recent graduates, graduate students, law students, and early-career professionals who are strongly committed to individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace—principles that together form libertarianism, also known as “classical liberalism,” “market liberalism,” or, to many of our international friends, simply “liberalism.” 

All Cato interns participate in the same intensive seminar series, which covers a wide range of history, philosophy, policy, and professional development topics. Interns also assist with events and occasionally support Cato staff with other daily tasks. 

Interns receive competitive pay. Part-time roles are adjusted accordingly and require a minimum of 25 hours per week. Program participants must be able to attend in person in Washington, DC.

For more information about the internship program and experience, we encourage you to explore our website. If you have any questions, email studentprograms@cato.org.