Application Guide

How to Apply for Intern

at ODI

🏢 About ODI

ODI is unique as a leading global affairs think tank that directly advises global leaders, turning evidence-based research into actionable strategies for a more just and equitable future. Working here offers the opportunity to contribute to real-world policy impact through their three pillars: research, convening, and influencing, all while being part of a highly motivated team dedicated to positive change.

About This Role

This remote internship involves gaining hands-on experience by supporting ODI's core activities: assisting with research on global challenges, contributing to convening events that bring together leaders, and helping with influencing strategies to drive policy change. It's impactful because you'll directly contribute to turning bold ideas into actionable strategies that address pressing global issues.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve conducting background research for an upcoming policy brief on economic development, participating in a virtual team meeting to plan a convening event with global leaders, and assisting with compiling evidence for influencing strategies. You'll collaborate remotely with a motivated team while developing practical skills through hands-on contributions to ODI's mission-driven work.

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🎯 Who ODI Is Looking For

  • An early-career professional with demonstrated interest in international development, economics, or policy, possibly through coursework, volunteer work, or previous projects.
  • Someone who can articulate how they embody ODI's F.I.R.E values: Fearless in tackling complex problems, Inspirational in collaboration, Rigorous in research approach, and Ethical in all work.
  • A proactive learner eager to gain practical skills in a think tank environment, with specific curiosity about ODI's Fellowship Scheme focus areas.
  • A team player who shows genuine enthusiasm for ODI's mission of creating a more resilient, just, and equitable future through evidence-based strategies.

📝 Tips for Applying to ODI

1

Explicitly mention ODI's F.I.R.E values in your application materials and provide concrete examples of how you've demonstrated at least two of these values in academic or professional settings.

2

Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with research, policy analysis, or international development—even from coursework or extracurriculars—that aligns with ODI's focus areas.

3

Reference specific ODI projects or publications in your cover letter to show you've researched their work and understand their impact areas.

4

If you have remote work experience, emphasize your self-motivation and communication skills, as this is a remote internship position.

5

Connect your background to the ODI Fellowship Scheme by mentioning specific interest areas within international development or economics that match their focus.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Demonstrate your understanding of ODI's mission by explaining how your interests align with turning evidence and expertise into actionable strategies for global challenges.", "Provide specific examples of how you embody ODI's F.I.R.E values, particularly showing fearlessness in tackling complex problems and rigor in your approach.", "Explain why you're interested in the specific combination of research, convening, and influencing work at ODI, not just generic think tank experience.", 'Highlight any remote collaboration experience and how you stay motivated and communicative in virtual environments.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review ODI's recent publications and research projects to understand their current focus areas and methodologies.
  • → Study the ODI Fellowship Scheme to understand the specific development and economics topics they prioritize.
  • → Explore ODI's convening events and influencing activities to see how they engage with policymakers and stakeholders.
  • → Look into ODI's organizational values and culture through their website and social media to understand their F.I.R.E framework in practice.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you worked on a research project related to global affairs or development and how you ensured rigor in your approach.
2 How would you contribute to ODI's mission of turning bold ideas into actionable strategies? Provide a specific example.
3 Explain how you've demonstrated ethical decision-making in a previous academic or professional context.
4 What global challenge are you most passionate about, and how does it align with ODI's work?
5 How do you stay motivated and collaborative while working remotely, and what strategies do you use for effective virtual communication?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that doesn't mention ODI's specific F.I.R.E values or mission of turning ideas into actionable strategies.
  • Focusing only on what you hope to gain from the internship without demonstrating how you'll contribute to ODI's research, convening, and influencing activities.
  • Showing limited understanding of ODI's work by not referencing any of their specific projects, publications, or focus areas in your application.

📅 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 ODI!

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