Application Guide

How to Apply for Fall 2026 Science Externship – International Program

at Earthjustice

🏢 About Earthjustice

Earthjustice is the premier nonprofit environmental law organization, known for winning landmark legal battles to protect the planet. Working here means joining a team of passionate advocates who use the power of law to combat climate change, defend public health, and preserve natural resources. This is an opportunity to contribute to high-impact litigation and policy work from a remote setting.

About This Role

As a Fall 2026 Science Extern, you will support Earthjustice's energy transition work by conducting targeted research for legal and advocacy efforts. You'll analyze scientific and technical data to strengthen administrative comments, appeals, and litigation, while also exploring emerging issues in renewable energy and regulation. This role offers hands-on experience in applying science to real-world environmental law.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with reviewing recent scientific publications on renewable energy impacts, then drafting a research memo summarizing findings for a legal team. You could analyze data on emissions reduction from a proposed regulation, and later join a virtual meeting with attorneys to discuss how your research supports an administrative comment. The role is self-paced, with clear deadlines and regular check-ins with your supervisor.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Earthjustice Is Looking For

  • An undergraduate in environmental science, earth science, energy policy, or a related field with a strong grasp of technical concepts.
  • Proficient in conducting scientific literature reviews and basic quantitative analysis (e.g., Excel, R, or Python).
  • Excellent written communicator who can synthesize complex information into clear, concise memos.
  • Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple research tasks under deadlines, with curiosity about energy systems and environmental justice.

📝 Tips for Applying to Earthjustice

1

Highlight any coursework or projects related to energy systems, climate policy, or environmental law, even if not directly legal.

2

In your resume, list specific research experiences (e.g., literature reviews, data analysis) with measurable outcomes.

3

Tailor your cover letter to show you understand Earthjustice's mission and how your skills can aid their energy transition work.

4

If possible, include a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to analyze scientific data and communicate findings to a non-technical audience.

5

Mention your eligibility for academic credit or graduation requirement, as this is mandatory.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for using science to support environmental litigation and policy.', 'Specific experience with research methods (literature reviews, data analysis) and how they apply to energy projects.', "Understanding of Earthjustice's role in the energy transition and examples of their cases or campaigns.", 'Your ability to work independently in a remote setting and manage multiple research assignments.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Earthjustice's current energy program priorities, such as their work on clean energy, fossil fuel phase-out, and grid modernization.
  • → Read recent Earthjustice press releases or blog posts about energy-related cases (e.g., challenges to pipelines or renewable projects).
  • → Familiarize yourself with key U.S. energy regulations (e.g., NEPA, Clean Air Act) and how they intersect with environmental science.
  • → Look into the specific technical issues Earthjustice has addressed in administrative comments, such as carbon accounting or wildlife impacts.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you conducted a scientific literature review for a project. How did you organize your findings?
2 How would you approach researching the environmental impact of a proposed solar farm for a legal challenge?
3 What emerging technology or policy issue in the energy transition interests you most, and why?
4 How do you ensure accuracy when analyzing quantitative data? Give an example.
5 Why Earthjustice specifically, and how does this externship fit into your career goals?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Sending a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Earthjustice or their specific work.
  • Overlooking the requirement for academic credit – ensure you confirm eligibility before applying.
  • Focusing only on legal experience when the role is science-based; emphasize your research and analytical skills instead.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Earthjustice!

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