Welcome to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) Intern website, and thank you for your interest in serving OSTP. An internship at OSTP provides an opportunity to experience science and technology policy firsthand while working on a variety of tasks and projects.

Interns are accepted for one of three annual terms: Spring (January through April), Summer (June through August), or Fall (September through December). While these positions are without compensation, the assignments provide educational enrichment and can be a challenging learning experience.

Below, please find more general information about OSTP, details about each of the divisions of OSTP, and information on how to apply.



General Information

The Office of Science and Technology Policy advises the President on the effects of science and technology on domestic and international affairs. The office serves as a source of scientific and technological analysis and judgment for the President with respect to major policies, plans and programs of the Federal Government. OSTP leads an interagency effort to develop and implement sound science and technology policies and budgets. The office works with the private sector to ensure Federal investments in science and technology contribute to economic prosperity, environmental quality, and national security.

Dr. John H. Marburger serves as Science Advisor to President Bush and was confirmed by the Senate in October 2001 as Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Dr. Marburger also co-chairs the President's Committee of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) and supports the President's National Science and Technology Council (NSTC).

Office of Science and Technology Policy Structure

Director's Office. The focus of the Director's Office is to promote and support the Administration's position on science and technology and preserve research and development funding within the federal budget. Therefore, a large portion of the OSTP's duties is to convey those messages through media, community, and business/industry outreach programs.

The Director's Office is looking for interns who can facilitate these programs by coordinating and managing events and writing press releases and media advisories. Daily activities include maintaining an OSTP calendar of events for our Home Page on the World Wide Web, compiling a press digest for the President and Vice President, writing response letters to general inquiries and administrative support.

Intern candidates must possess strong written and verbal communication skills along with a desire to work in a busy office. The high volume of work requires individuals who respond well under pressure and who have the ability to handle several projects simultaneously. Although an interest in science and technology issues is preferred, we would not turn away candidates with proven writing skills, maturity, professionalism and a clear record of academic and/or personal achievement.

Homeland and National Security (HNS). The Homeland and National Security Division (HNS) of OSTP leads the White House effort to use science and technology in the service of security. The national security agenda includes: defense technology investment, arms control, and non-proliferation policy.

The Homeland and National Security Division seeks interns with an interest in national security issues, the workings of the Executive Branch and the Executive Office of the President, policy research and development, and interagency dynamics. HNS is looking for candidates from a wide-range of backgrounds—from science to government majors—that have a clear record of achievement, notable poise, an eagerness to enter into the dealings of the division, the ability to write well under pressure, and experience in research and presentation.

Interns are called upon to fulfill a variety of functions, including: representation at U.S. government functions, interagency support, and substantive research and writing.

Science. The Science Division focuses on maintaining a broad Federal research program, based on excellence, which advances the frontiers of knowledge and supports critical national goals through a strong link to education. The division leads the White House effort to ensure that the United States continues to maintain global leadership in science, mathematics, and engineering research. It also ensures that science continues to provide support for the successful resolution of some of the most important problems in the areas of health, agriculture, the economy, energy, social well-being, education, and national security.

The Science Division is looking for interns with strong verbal and written communication skills, experience in research and presentation, and working knowledge of basic computer applications. A major or degree in one of the sciences (physics, biology, chemistry, social or behavioral sciences, etc) is preferable.

The intern will work primarily in one of the three science disciplines—life sciences, physical sciences, or social and behavioral sciences—on a major project. The intern also will be expected to assist with daily office activities (phones, faxes, copies, etc.) and any special division projects that may require additional help, such as Presidential awards events.

Technology. The Technology Division is seeking an intern candidate who will assist the Division with a variety of duties. Some of the issues currently being addressed are the International Space Station, space shuttle, remote sensing, commercial space activity and international cooperation in space.

The Technology Division seeks interns to participate in the day-to-day staff work dealing with issues in energy, information technology, nanotechnology, space & aeronautics, and bandwidth, and digital television. Some prior knowledge of these issues is helpful. In addition, interns are required to have excellent organizational and writing skills.

Interns will be responsible for analysis of space & aeronautics policy issues, background research, draft memoranda, prepare briefings and talking points, staff events as necessary, assist with daily office maintenance (faxes, copier, phone, reception), run miscellaneous errands inside and outside the building. In addition, interns will complete one major project over the course of their internship.

How to Apply

Eligibility:

Must be a U.S. citizen

Enrolled, not less than half-time, in an accredited college, university or other accredited educational institution

Requirements:
The following information is required when applying for an internship. You may apply to more than one division within the OSTP.

Resume (with cover letter that includes the divisions of OSTP that interest you)

2-page writing sample, preferably addressing the area of science and technology policy in which you would like to focus your internship

Copy of transcript(s)

Letters of recommendation (optional, 2 max.)

To apply, please email electronic copies or fax hardcopies of the documents mentioned above to Abby Bacak. All documents should be sent at the same time.

Mailing/Contact Information
Email: Abby Bacak, aback@ostp.eop.gov
Telephone: (202) 456-6133
Fax: (202) 456-6023