Announcement from the Polar Research Board (PRB):
National Academies Accepting Nominations for the Christine Mirzayan
Internship Program
Washington, D.C.
Deadline for the January 2002 program is: 1 November 2001
Deadline for the June 2002 program is: 1 March 2002
This Internship Program of the National Academies is designed to engage
graduate and postdoctoral students in science and technology policy and
to familiarize them with the interactions among science, technology, and
government. As a result, students -- in the fields of science,
engineering, medical, veterinary, business, and law -- develop essential
skills different from those attained in academia, which will help them
make the transition from being a graduate student to becoming a
professional.
There are two sessions each year: January (12 weeks) and June (10
weeks). To apply, candidates should submit the application and reference
forms available on the Web at http://national-academies.org/internship.
The deadline for receipt of materials is November 1 for the January
program and March 1 for the June program. Additional details about the
program and how to join our mailing list are also available on the web
site.
Questions should be directed to the internship mailbox at:
internship [at] nas.edu
Here is what four former interns said about the program:
"This is an important career building opportunity for people interested
in the scientific community outside academia. Even if you plan to pursue
a traditional academic track, seeing science from a policy perspective
is very enlightening. There is something valuable in this experience for
first year grad students to recent PhD's. Come with an open mind and
expect to learn more than you bargained for."
"The National Academies Internship has been one of the most valuable
life experiences I have had thus far. The scope of the influence of the
Academies in helping shape science, medical, and engineering related
policy is amazing to witness. Through this internship, I have learned
more about my work as a social scientist than I imagined, and I have a
better sense of how my research can relate to public policy."
"The Internship program provides an exceptional opportunity for
scientists to explore various facets of scholarly research and
policymaking. As an intern, you will work with an eclectic mix of highly
educated, diverse intellectuals who help advance the future of science.
You will leave not only armed with important and influential contacts
but also with invaluable skills and experiences."
"This program will open your mind to a world rarely envisioned from the
confines of laboratory bench work. I learned an immeasurable amount
about the policy and politics behind science and after the internship
opens your mind, it opens career doors."