Spring 2026 Liberty and National Security Undergraduate Internship, NY

The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that seeks to improve the systems of democracy and justice in the United States. We work to hold our political institutions and laws accountable to the twin American ideals of democracy and equal justice for all. The Brennan Center’s work ranges from voting rights to campaign finance reform, from ending mass incarceration to preserving Constitutional protections in national security policies. Part think-tank, part advocacy group, part cutting edge communications hub, we start with rigorous research. We craft innovative policies. And we fight for them – in Congress and the states, in the courts, and in the court of public opinion.

We are seeking interns to provide research, administrative, and clerical support to staff in our office.

Note: This internship is in-person at our New York office.

Responsibilities: The Liberty and National Security Program (LNS) undergraduate interns typically conduct research on program issues, such as surveillance, artificial intelligence, religious and racial profiling, ideological targeting, and counter-terrorism initiatives; track relevant legislation and court cases; copy-edit and cite check research papers, blogs, op-eds, or other materials; and assist with scheduling, mailing publications, and maintaining contact lists. Additionally, there will be opportunities to attend and observe substantive meetings, events, and conversations on program work.

All interns will also assist with general administrative, research and clerical work for the Brennan Center, including filing, photocopying, answering phones, shipping and mailing, coordinating meetings, drafting routine correspondence, assisting with travel arrangements and expense reports, and covering the reception desk.

Qualifications: The ideal candidates are independent self-starters; reliable; detail-oriented; energetic; punctual; and highly organized. Interns must also have excellent research, writing, and analytical skills, as well as a passion for our issues. Experience with Windows, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word is a must. Applicants must be open to evolving responsibilities.

We are committed to considering a wide range of candidates, including those with diverse experiences and backgrounds. 

If you're uncertain about meeting 100% of our qualifications, we encourage you to apply anyway. Therefore, please consider submitting your application. In your cover letter, please share your interest in the position and what you hope to contribute to the role. 

This internship is only open to current undergraduate students.  

Hours: Approximately 10 - 20 hours per week  

Pay: $17.95 per hour  

Duration: Spring Semester 2026

Application Deadline: November 24, 2025 

To Apply:
Please visit >> LINK HERE << and upload (preferably in pdf) your (1) resume, (2) cover letter, (3) a writing sample of no more than 10 pages and (4) a list of contact details for three supervisor references. In your cover letter, please explain your interest in the LNS Program.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage interested students to apply early, as the positions will be filled once qualified candidates are found. No phone calls, please.

If you have difficulty with the online system, you may send your application by e-mail to: [email protected] with "LNS NY Undergraduate Internship" in the subject line, after registering in the online system. Applying through our website is strongly preferred.

Note: The Brennan Center is committed to public health and to the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues and visitors. As such, we have adopted a policy requiring all employees working in the New York and Washington, DC offices to be vaccinated against COVID-19, or to meet the legal guidelines for an exemption.

The Brennan Center for Justice is committed to a workplace based on equal opportunity and a strong belief in the increased effectiveness that comes from a diverse workforce. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, socioeconomic identity, sexual orientation, national origin, previous incarceration, disability, military veteran/status, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. To this end, we welcome all qualified applicants to apply.