IDB Research Intern in State Effectiveness, Public Sector Reform and Institutions

Job Posting Organization:
The IDB Group, established in 1959, is a leading source of development financing for Latin America and the Caribbean. It comprises the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), IDB Invest, and IDB Lab, focusing on economic and social development through flexible financing solutions, including loans and grants to public and private entities. The organization is committed to reducing poverty and inequality, improving health and education, and advancing infrastructure in a sustainable manner. With a strong emphasis on integrity, transparency, and accountability, the IDB Group operates in multiple countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to making a positive impact in the region.

Job Overview:
The IDB Group is seeking an active Master's or Ph.D. student for a paid internship opportunity as part of the 2027 Winter Internship Program. This program is designed for university students from member countries to gain insights into development work and corporate management within the Bank. The intern will be based at the IDB Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and will engage in on-the-job learning to acquire professional experience. The selected candidate will support the Institutional Capacity of the State Division (ICS) within the Institutions for Development Department (IFD) by contributing to a knowledge publication focused on State Effectiveness and Institutional Capacity in Guatemala. This role requires a proactive approach to research and analysis, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and communication.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting literature reviews on topics such as state effectiveness, governance, public sector reform, and institutional capacity. They will collect, organize, and systematize both qualitative and quantitative evidence related to public sector performance and institutional reform in Guatemala. Additionally, the intern will support the preparation of various analytical products, including policy briefs, background papers, data summaries, and benchmarking exercises. They will contribute to the development of the publication's Concept Note, detailed outline, and draft sections, as well as assist in preparing presentations, figures, tables, references, and other knowledge products for both internal and external audiences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of an IDB member country and actively enrolled in a graduate program (master’s or Ph.D.) as of the internship's starting date. The graduation date must be after the internship period. Applicants should not have family members working at the IDB or IDB Invest and must be first-time participants in the IDB Group's Internship Program. Previous experience in supporting the preparation of analytical reports, research publications, discussion papers, or policy briefs is highly desirable, along with demonstrated knowledge of literature review methodologies and public policy analysis.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be an active graduate student pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. in fields such as Public Policy, Public Administration, Economics, Political Science, International Development, Public Management, Governance, or related disciplines from an accredited university. It is essential that at least 50% of the coursework is completed by the time of application, and the graduation date should be after the internship period.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in research and analysis, particularly in the context of public policy and institutional capacity. Previous internships or roles that involved preparing analytical reports or engaging in qualitative and quantitative analysis will be beneficial. The candidate should demonstrate a strong ability to conduct literature reviews and possess skills in academic and professional writing.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and a working knowledge of one additional Bank language (Spanish, French, or Portuguese) is considered a plus. This bilingual capability will enhance the intern's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute effectively to the team's objectives.

Additional Notes:
The internship is a full-time position requiring 40 hours of work per week from January 16th to March 15th, 202

• The contract type is Intern Consultant, lasting for two months. Candidates must submit their resume, academic transcripts, and a university letter certifying their student status when applying. Applications lacking the requested documentation will be disqualified. Interns must be available for the entire duration of the internship, and international students in the U.S. should ensure they have the appropriate work authorization through CPT or OPT. The IDB Group is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and encourages individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.