Apply for Oxfam Research Internship 2026: A Paid Remote Opportunity

Oxfam is offering a paid Research Intern position in Washington, DC with remote work options. Graduates and students in data science, economics, and development studies can gain hands-on experience supporting research on inequality, industrial policy, and humanitarian aid while contributing to global social justice efforts.

Oxfam America Research Internship 2026: Building Future Leaders in Global Justice

Oxfam America, a globally respected organization dedicated to fighting inequality and ending poverty, has announced an exciting Research Internship opportunity for aspiring professionals seeking real-world experience in international development, data analysis, and policy research. Based in Washington, DC, with flexible remote work arrangements, this paid internship provides a rare opportunity for students and recent graduates to contribute to impactful research that shapes global advocacy and humanitarian strategies.

As inequality, climate change, and economic injustice continue to challenge communities worldwide, Oxfam America remains committed to addressing these issues through evidence-based advocacy and policy influence. The Research Internship sits at the heart of this mission, offering interns hands-on exposure to nonprofit research operations while supporting projects that advance equity and justice globally.

About Oxfam America

Oxfam is an international organization working to combat inequality and create sustainable solutions to poverty and injustice. From responding to humanitarian crises to advocating for gender equality, economic justice, and climate action, Oxfam’s work touches millions of lives across the globe. The organization believes in equal rights and fair treatment for all, ensuring that communities not only survive but thrive.

Oxfam America’s Strategy and Insights Hub drives research, analysis, and evidence-based programming that supports its advocacy efforts. The Research Intern will become part of this dynamic environment, contributing to knowledge creation that informs global change.

Internship Overview

The Research Intern position is housed within Oxfam America’s Research Department under the Strategy & Insights Hub. The internship is designed to provide meaningful learning experiences, equipping participants with professional research skills while supporting critical organizational initiatives.

This is a paid internship, offering compensation starting from USD 17 per hour. The role is classified as non-exempt and allows employees to work remotely, making it accessible to candidates across different locations.

Internship Timeline:

Duration: February 1 – March 31
Working Hours: Approximately 10 hours per week

Through this short-term but intensive experience, interns will engage directly with research activities that shape Oxfam’s approach to addressing inequality and humanitarian response.

Purpose of the Internship

The primary goal of this internship is to provide exposure to research and project coordination in a mission-driven nonprofit environment. Interns will assist professional researchers in generating insights that enhance Oxfam’s advocacy and policy engagement. Beyond technical tasks, the role allows participants to understand how research influences real-world decision-making in international development and humanitarian aid.

By the end of the internship, participants will have gained practical experience in data handling, academic literature review, policy-related research, and professional collaboration within a global organization.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Intern will collaborate with multiple departments and team members across the organization. Core responsibilities include:

Supporting research, data collection, and analysis for industrial policy projects
Locating academic and policy materials for literature reviews
Entering and maintaining data in research software with consistent quality checks
Developing an annotated bibliography focused on emergency food aid in fragile contexts
Identifying and classifying datasets related to inequality in the United States
Supporting the creation of data catalogs for internal research use
Assisting in drafting, editing, and formatting reports and presentations
Coordinating meetings, internal events, and project logistics
Conducting background research and summarizing findings
Providing general administrative and project support

These tasks ensure that interns receive a balanced experience across research, administration, communication, and project coordination.

Professional Development and Workplace Culture

Oxfam America places strong emphasis on learning, collaboration, and inclusion. Interns are expected to:

Stay informed on emerging trends and professional standards in research and development fields
Work collaboratively in team-based environments that prioritize dignity and respect
Demonstrate commitment to Oxfam’s mission, values, and equity-driven objectives
Promote gender justice, racial equity, and diversity in professional conduct
Uphold accountability and ethical standards in all work activities

This environment offers a supportive platform for interns to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful global initiatives.

Eligibility and Qualifications

Oxfam America seeks motivated individuals who are passionate about social justice and research-based advocacy.

Educational Requirements:

Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a graduate program in:
- Data Science
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Or other relevant fields

Core Skills and Competencies:

Strong written and verbal communication skills
Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
Interest in nonprofit work, international development, and social justice
Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and Office tools
Ability to work effectively in diverse and cross-cultural teams
Good judgment in handling sensitive information

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior experience in research, data analysis, or policy work
Internship, volunteer, or coursework exposure related to development or social justice fields

While prior experience is advantageous, it is not mandatory, making this an accessible opportunity for emerging professionals.

Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

Oxfam America is a gender-just and equal opportunity employer. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, exploitation, or abuse. Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, and no discrimination is practiced on the basis of race, gender, nationality, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

This commitment ensures that interns work in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that reflects Oxfam’s global values.

Why This Internship Matters

In a world where data-driven advocacy shapes policy decisions and humanitarian strategies, the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research is invaluable. This internship allows participants to move beyond theoretical learning into practical engagement with real-world development challenges. Interns gain professional research experience, exposure to international nonprofit operations, and a deeper understanding of global inequality issues.

For students and graduates aiming to build careers in development, economics, data science, public policy, or humanitarian work, this internship serves as a strong stepping stone into the sector.

Final Thoughts

The Oxfam America Research Internship 2026 represents more than a temporary placement — it is an opportunity to contribute to global change through evidence-based research and advocacy. By joining Oxfam’s Strategy and Insights Hub, interns become part of a team dedicated to shaping a more equal, just, and sustainable world.

Aspiring researchers and social justice advocates are encouraged to seize this opportunity to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact.