Application Guide

How to Apply for Intern (Policy and Regulatory Assessment)

at Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)

๐Ÿข About Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)

Evidence Action is a unique global nonprofit that uses rigorous evidence and data to scale proven, cost-effective health interventions that combat poverty. They focus on delivering outsized impact with every dollar, having reached 530M people globally and saved 16K+ children's lives through programs like Deworm the World and Safe Water Now. Working here means contributing to scalable solutions with measurable, life-changing outcomes.

About This Role

As an Intern in Policy and Regulatory Assessment, you'll likely support research and analysis on policy frameworks and regulatory environments affecting Evidence Action's health interventions in India. This role is impactful because it helps ensure programs like deworming and safe water access can be implemented effectively within local legal and governmental systems, directly enabling life-saving work.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve researching recent Indian health policy updates, analyzing regulatory documents to identify barriers for program implementation, and collaborating with team members to draft assessment reports. You could also attend meetings to discuss findings that support scaling interventions like deworming or safe water access, ensuring alignment with Evidence Action's data-driven approach.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) Is Looking For

  • A graduate student or recent graduate in public policy, public health, international development, or law with a focus on health or regulatory affairs.
  • Strong research and analytical skills, with experience or coursework in policy analysis, regulatory assessment, or health systems.
  • Familiarity with India's public health landscape, government structures, and regulatory processes.
  • Data-driven mindset aligned with Evidence Action's emphasis on evidence-based solutions and measurable impact.

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)

1

Explicitly mention Evidence Action's specific programs (e.g., Deworm the World, Safe Water Now) and how your skills relate to scaling proven interventions.

2

Highlight any experience with policy or regulatory research in India, even if academicโ€”detail methodologies used.

3

Quantify your impact in past roles or projects (e.g., 'analyzed 10+ policy documents to identify regulatory barriers').

4

Demonstrate knowledge of their evidence-based approach by referencing their reported metrics (e.g., 530M people reached).

5

Tailor your resume to include keywords like 'policy analysis,' 'regulatory assessment,' 'data-driven,' and 'global health.'

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your understanding of Evidence Action's model of scaling proven, cost-effective interventions and why it resonates with you.", 'Specific examples of your research or analysis skills applied to policy, regulation, or health systems.', 'How your background aligns with their work in India, including any regional knowledge or language skills.', 'Your ability to contribute to their impact metrics by supporting regulatory assessments that enable program expansion.']

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ Deep dive into Evidence Action's programs in India (e.g., Deworm the World's scale, Safe Water Now's implementation).
  • โ†’ Study recent Indian health policies or regulations relevant to deworming, water safety, or maternal/child health.
  • โ†’ Review their impact reports and blog posts (e.g., announcements about Tanzania expansion) to understand their strategic priorities.
  • โ†’ Explore their emphasis on cost-effectiveness and dataโ€”familiarize yourself with terms like 'deworming' and 'syphilis elimination' in their context.

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you analyzed a policy or regulatory document and drew actionable insights.
2 How would you assess the regulatory environment for a deworming program in a new Indian state?
3 What do you think are the biggest policy barriers to scaling safe water access in India?
4 How do you ensure your research is rigorous and evidence-based, per Evidence Action's approach?
5 Why is Evidence Action's focus on 'proven solutions' important in global health policy?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Evidence Action's specific programs or evidence-based model.
  • Overemphasizing theoretical policy interests without linking to practical, scalable interventions like theirs.
  • Failing to demonstrate knowledge of India's health landscape or regulatory challenges.

๐Ÿ“… 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

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP)!