Intern, Global Cities: Research

This intern will conduct background research on questions and projects related to Global Cities work, including climate change, the economy, global governance, inclusion, infrastructure, innovation, and urban diplomacy.
This internship is virtual

This is the century of cities. For the first time in human history, more people now live in cities than in rural areas. By 2050, 6.5 billion people—two-thirds of all humanity—are expected to work and live in cities. Global cities like London, New York, Tokyo, Paris, Dubai, Shanghai, Rio, and Chicago rise above the rest. They increasingly shape our world—not only the global economy but its ideas, culture, and policies. Their influence transcends national borders. On the front lines of the world’s greatest challenges—terrorism, inequality, cybercrime, and climate change—cities drive the most innovative solutions.

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs drives dialogue on the rise and influence of global cities to shape our political, social, and economic lives and develop solutions to critical global challenges. A team of distinguished fellows, research associates, and nonresident fellows provides analysis and commentary on issues affecting global cities. Their research includes defining what makes a global city, examining the role of global cities as actors in global governance, developing a global engagement strategy for Chicago that can serve as a model for others, and exploring how arts and culture shape, define, and enhance global cities. The Council’s work in this area culminates each year with the Chicago Forum on Global Cities, an annual three-day event that convenes global leaders in business, civics, education, and the arts for a cross-sector dialogue on the power and limitations of global cities. More than 75 speakers and 600 delegates from around the world gather at this one-of-a-kind international event to share their experiences and discuss the influential role global cities play in addressing critical world challenges.

The Intern, Studies: Global Cities will train under the direct supervision of the Research Associate for Global Cities. The intern will conduct background research on questions and projects related to Global Cities work, including climate change, the economy, global governance, inclusion, infrastructure, innovation, and urban diplomacy.

The intern performs a variety of tasks including:
  • Supporting ongoing research efforts related to economic policy, global governance, and economic diplomacy
  • Reviewing and synthesizing academic literature, policy reports, and institutional publications
  • Preparing background briefings on specific research questions or thematic topics
  • Fact-checking data, citations, and sources for Council publications
  • Researching prospective experts to serve as peer reviewers, commentators, working group participants, or guest speakers
  • Developing and preparing materials for studies-related meetings and mailings
  • Assisting with planning and implementation of studies-related events
  • Performing administrative duties
  • Other tasks as assigned
Qualifications
  • Undergraduate senior or graduate student
  • Demonstrated interest in current topics related to energy transformation, sustainability and infrastructure in cities
  • Strong research, editing, and writing skills
  • Ability to quickly analyze and synthesize complex information
  • Outstanding organizational skills
  • Excellent written and interpersonal skills
  • Keen attention to detail
  • Familiarity with MS Office Suite, especially Excel and PowerPoint (Required)
  • Familiarity with statistical analysis software: STATA, SPSS, or R (Advantageous)
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