The Institute for Government (IfG) is now accepting applications for its prestigious one-year Research Internship Programme for 2025–26, beginning in September 2025. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates with a passion for public policy, research, and improving government effectiveness.
About the Programme
Interns will join IfG’s research team and work on projects that aim to strengthen how government operates. You’ll support research efforts, contribute to policy publications, and engage with key public figures like MPs and civil servants.
Each intern is typically assigned to one of the themes in the IfG’s work programme, such as:
- Civil service
- Devolution
- Public finances
- Policy delivery
- Government evaluation
The work is dynamic and varies across teams but is grounded in rigorous analysis, writing, and collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
- Carrying out literature reviews
- Completing background research and conducting interviews with MPs, civil servants and others alongside colleagues
- Undertaking data analysis, including creating and updating charts and developing data visualisation skills
- Working with colleagues across the research and communications teams to organise and deliver the IfG’s public and private events
- Presenting research findings to colleagues
- Writing explainers and contributing to published reports
- Providing other forms of administrative support to the rest of your team as required.
Note: The precise nature of each individual internship will vary according to the needs of the projects that specific teams are working on.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have:
- A university degree (minimum 2:1 or international equivalent)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- An analytical mindset and attention to detail
- Interest in the UK government and public policy
The IfG particularly encourages applications from:
- Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse candidates
- Disabled individuals
- Candidates from low-income or non-traditional educational backgrounds
Note: If you are interested in this role but are not sure you have all the skills we’re looking for, please do apply and give us the chance to consider you as a candidate.
(The IfG is committed to supporting greater diversity and inclusion within our workforce, and to fostering an environment in which everyone feels welcome, supported and valued. We welcome applications from anyone who is interested in government and how to make it more effective, and particularly encourage applications from candidates who belong to groups currently underrepresented in the think-tank sector. This includes but is not limited to Black, Asian and ethnically diverse candidates, disabled candidates, and candidates from low-income backgrounds.)
Salary
£30,000 (GBP) per annum (full-time, fixed-term position)
Location and Type
- Hybrid · London, UK. (
- Full-time 12-month contract starting in September 2025.
- Team: Research
- Seniority: Junior
How to Apply
To apply:
Application Deadline
Tuesday, 29 April 2025 at 11:00 British Summer Time (BST)/ UTC +1
Late submissions will not be considered.
Interview Schedule
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online interview w/c 19 May 2025.
Regions Applicable To
Applications are open to all nationals!
This internship is based in London and is ideal for applicants eligible to work in the UK. While the role is open to all backgrounds, applicants must have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship for the full duration of the internship.
Contact for Queries
If you have any questions, please email: [email protected]
You can also visit their Internship FAQs page for more information.
Conclusion
The Institute for Government Research Internship Programme 2025–26 is a unique, paid opportunity for aspiring policy professionals to gain hands-on experience in one of the UK’s leading think tanks. With a strong focus on developing analytical, research, and communication skills, this internship will prepare participants for impactful careers in public policy and beyond. The IfG’s commitment to inclusion ensures a welcoming space for candidates from all walks of life.
Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to meaningful change in government.
Apply by 29 April 2025!
Quick Links
For details, visit IFG website.
For more Internship opportunities, visit OFY Internships page.