Launch your career with one of the world’s leading environmental research organizations. The World Resources Institute Graduate Program is accepting applications for its internship and graduate opportunities, offering students and recent graduates the chance to gain hands-on experience in climate action, sustainable development, environmental research, clean energy, forests, food systems, finance, and global policy.
WRI’s Internship Program is designed to provide meaningful learning experiences that allow participants to contribute to real-world projects while working alongside internationally recognized experts dedicated to creating a more sustainable future.
Why Join the World Resources Institute?
The World Resources Institute is a global nonprofit organization that works with governments, businesses, communities, and international institutions to tackle some of the world’s most pressing environmental and development challenges.
Interns and graduate professionals become part of multidisciplinary teams working on practical solutions that improve people’s lives while protecting the planet.
Program Areas
Opportunities are available across numerous research and operational teams, including:
- Climate Change
- Clean Energy
- Sustainable Cities
- Food Systems
- Forest Conservation
- Freshwater Resources
- Ocean Conservation
- Environmental Economics
- Sustainable Finance
- Data Science
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Communications
- Public Policy
- International Development
- Research and Analysis
- Corporate Sustainability
- Environmental Governance
- Equity and Inclusive Development
What Participants Will Do
Depending on the role, interns and graduate professionals may:
- Conduct policy and environmental research.
- Analyze climate and sustainability data.
- Support global research projects.
- Prepare reports and technical publications.
- Assist with stakeholder engagement.
- Contribute to communications and outreach activities.
- Support program implementation.
- Work with international teams on sustainability initiatives.
- Participate in workshops and knowledge-sharing events.
- Collaborate with experts on innovative environmental solutions.
Learning Experience
WRI’s Internship Program emphasizes professional development through meaningful work assignments that contribute directly to organizational projects.
Participants benefit from:
- Hands-on project experience
- Exposure to international sustainability initiatives
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Networking opportunities across global offices
- Professional skills development
- Participation in research publications
- Cross-cultural collaboration
- Experience working in a mission-driven organization
Many former interns have contributed to published research and continued into successful careers in environmental science, policy, consulting, international development, and sustainability.
Internship Locations
Internship opportunities are offered throughout the year in:
- Washington, D.C.
- Africa
- Asia
- Europe
- Latin America
- North America
- Other WRI international offices
Available locations vary depending on the position.
Eligibility
WRI welcomes applications from:
- Current undergraduate students
- Master’s students
- PhD students
- Recent graduates
- Early-career professionals
- Individuals interested in gaining practical experience in sustainability and environmental work
Applicants from diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Preferred Backgrounds
Although requirements differ by position, competitive candidates often study fields such as:
- Environmental Science
- Climate Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Public Policy
- International Development
- Economics
- Geography
- GIS
- Data Science
- Computer Science
- Agriculture
- Forestry
- Energy Systems
- Urban Planning
- Communications
- Finance
- Political Science
- Sustainable Development
What WRI Looks For
Successful applicants typically demonstrate:
- Passion for environmental sustainability.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Excellent communication abilities.
- Research experience.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Collaboration and teamwork.
- Initiative and curiosity.
- Commitment to creating global impact.
Benefits of the Program
Depending on the position and location, participants may receive:
- Paid internship opportunities (for eligible positions)
- Professional mentoring
- Practical work experience
- Networking with global experts
- Career development support
- Exposure to international environmental policy
- Opportunities to contribute to high-impact research
- Experience within a globally recognized nonprofit organization
Both paid and unpaid internship opportunities may be available depending on the specific office and role.
Why Start Your Career at WRI?
Working at the World Resources Institute offers more than valuable work experience—it provides the opportunity to contribute to solutions addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, sustainable food systems, renewable energy, environmental equity, and resilient cities.
Whether your interests lie in research, policy, communications, technology, economics, or environmental science, WRI provides a collaborative environment where your work can have meaningful global impact.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Visit the official WRI Careers website.
- Browse available internship and graduate opportunities.
- Select a position aligned with your education and career interests.
- Complete the online application.
- Upload your CV, cover letter, and any required supporting documents.
- Submit your application before the advertised deadline.
Since internship opportunities are posted throughout the year, applicants are encouraged to check the careers page regularly for new openings.
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