Research Assistant

The Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) invites applications for the Summer 2027 Research Assistant Fellowship. EPIC is contributing innovative solutions to the Global Energy Challenge: how can we ensure that people around the world, today and in the future, have access to the reliable, affordable energy needed for human development without putting our health, environment and climate at risk? Previous results from EPIC projects have been influential with policymakers worldwide and featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and other leading publications. Typical research projects involve the analysis of environmental and energy data from the United States, India, China, and other countries, utilizing experimental, quasi-experimental, and modeling methods.

Successful candidates will report to Michael Greenstone, Milton Friedman Distinguished Service Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago, founding director of the University’s Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth and the director of the interdisciplinary Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago.

Responsibilities for this role span all stages of research, including:

• Managing projects
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Creating presentations
• Editing manuscripts

Applicants must be current undergraduates or graduate students and have a strong interest in economic research. A demonstrated interest in energy and environmental economics is encouraged but not required. EPIC reviews candidates holistically and encourages candidates to apply even if they do not have extensive past experience with programming or empirical research. The goal of the program is to develop the intern’s skills as a researcher. Interns will be mentored by current Pre-Doctoral Fellows and gain skills in programming and empirical analysis.

The ideal candidate would work in the EPIC office for around ten weeks during Summer 2027. This position will be fully in person at the University of Chicago and offers a competitive stipend. We have a priority deadline of October 22, 2026, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis thereafter. We encourage candidates to apply as early as possible. Due to the high volume of applications, only candidates shortlisted for an interview will be contacted.

 Questions and inquiries about the summer fellowship should be directed to bfipredoc@uchicago.edu 

Frequently Asked Questions

     1. Do you offer visa sponsorship for international applicants?

• EPIC sponsors work visas for full-time positions, but unfortunately cannot sponsor visas for summer internships. International applicants with existing work authorization are encouraged to apply (CPT/OPT).

     2. Are there any specific requirements for the optional writing sample? 

• There are no requirements for the length or topic of your writing sample. Many successful applicants submit term papers from economics, statistics, or public policy classes that highlight their abilities in writing and quantitative analysis.

     3. Are graduate level students eligible to apply?

• No, this opportunity is only open to undergraduate students and those graduating with their undergraduate degree in Spring 2027