How to apply for Externship Opportunities

About Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD)

The Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD) is a leading non-profit think tank that works at the intersection of governance, law, and sustainable development, with a focus on climate mitigation and environmental protection. IGSD is known for its high-level policy research and advocacy, often contributing to international environmental law and governance frameworks. Externs gain unique exposure to cutting-edge legal and policy issues while working alongside experts who shape global environmental strategies.

About the role

This remote externship involves reviewing, editing, and updating chapters of an international environmental law and policy textbook, covering topics such as climate mitigation, environmental protection, oceans, and habitat conservation. The work is directly tied to IGSD's mission of advancing sustainable development through legal and governance mechanisms. The extern will contribute to a critical educational resource that trains the next generation of environmental lawyers and policymakers.

A typical day

A typical day might involve reviewing a chapter on climate mitigation law, checking for updates in international agreements, and editing for clarity and accuracy. You might also research recent developments in ocean governance or habitat conservation to ensure the textbook reflects current legal frameworks. You would communicate with supervisors via email or virtual meetings to discuss revisions and align on priorities.

Who Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD) is looking for

• Currently pursuing a JD or LLM with a strong interest in environmental law, climate policy, or international governance.
• Demonstrated commitment to climate and environmental progress through coursework, internships, volunteering, or advocacy.
• Excellent writing, research, and editing skills, with the ability to synthesize complex legal and policy concepts clearly.
• Highly organized and self-motivated, capable of managing remote work and meeting deadlines with minimal supervision.

Tips for this application

• Highlight any experience with environmental law, climate policy, or international governance in your resume and cover letter—IGSD values demonstrated commitment to these areas.
• Provide specific examples of editing or writing projects (e.g., law review articles, policy briefs, research papers) that showcase your ability to refine complex legal text.
• Mention your familiarity with international environmental frameworks (e.g., UNFCCC, Paris Agreement, CBD) to show you understand the textbook's context.
• Emphasize your ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote setting, as the externship offers flexible hours (10–40/week).
• Tailor your application to the textbook's focus areas (climate mitigation, oceans, habitat conservation) by referencing relevant coursework or projects.

What to cover in your cover letter

["Your specific interest in IGSD's mission and how your background aligns with its work on international environmental law and sustainable development.", 'Concrete examples of your editing and research skills, particularly with legal or policy documents, and how they prepare you to update textbook chapters.', 'Your commitment to climate and environmental progress, illustrated through academic, professional, or volunteer experiences.', 'Your ability to work remotely and collaboratively, with strong organizational skills to handle the 10–12 week project timeline.']

Research before applying

• Explore IGSD's website, focusing on their recent publications, reports, and initiatives related to international environmental law and climate mitigation.
• Research the backgrounds of IGSD's leadership and staff to understand their expertise and the organization's approach to governance and sustainable development.
• Review the textbook or similar materials IGSD has produced to familiarize yourself with the content and style you would be editing.
• Look into IGSD's partnerships and advocacy work at international forums (e.g., UNFCCC COPs) to grasp the real-world impact of their legal and policy efforts.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Your understanding of key international environmental law concepts and how you would approach updating textbook chapters on climate mitigation or oceans.
• How you prioritize and manage multiple editing tasks under tight deadlines in a remote work environment.
• Your experience with legal research and writing, and how you ensure accuracy and clarity in complex texts.
• Why you are specifically interested in IGSD's approach to governance and sustainable development, and how this externship fits your career goals.
• A discussion of a current environmental law or policy issue and how it might be reflected in the textbook.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting a generic cover letter that does not mention IGSD, the textbook project, or specific environmental law topics—shows lack of genuine interest.
• Failing to demonstrate a commitment to environmental progress beyond coursework; IGSD seeks candidates who are actively engaged in the field.
• Overlooking the remote nature of the role by not addressing your ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Neglecting to proofread your application materials; given the editing focus, any errors in your writing could be disqualifying.