Department for Education

The Department for Education are launching a new PhD internship programme for doctoral researchers who want to experience policymaking at the heart of government.

Host Name:

Department for Education

Main Point of Contact:

Esther Outram – esther1.outram@education.gov.uk

Location:

The placement can be fully remote or hybrid.

Work Schedule:

3 months, full-time.

Deadline for applications:

The deadline for applications is 18th September 2026.

Number of placements available:

Multiple

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit the following:

• A short CV of maximum 2 pages
• A 500-word statement explaining your interest in the opportunity and why you would be a good fit

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview before placements are agreed.

Please submit your application to esther1.outram@education.gov.uk by 18th September 2026.

Students are also advised to inform scdtp@soton.ac.uk if they submit an application.

If you have any questions about the placement, please contact Esther Outram – esther1.outram@education.gov.uk

How the programme works:

Successful candidates will join the Department for Education on a full-time placement, typically working at a level equivalent to the Civil Service Fast Stream. Each intern will receive an induction, a line manager and ongoing support throughout their placement. Appointments will be subject to the appropriate Civil Service security checks before the placement begins. Placements are expected to begin from January 2027, with further opportunities throughout the year.

What you’ll do:

Working on higher education policy, you’ll work alongside officials to:

• Contribute to policy development
• Review and synthesise evidence
• Engage with experts
• Prepare briefings, advice and presentations
• Organise activities for collaboration

Placements are designed to support the Department’s policy priorities. While these may not align directly with your PhD research, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your skills and subject expertise to a range of real-world policy challenges.

What you’ll gain:

As a PhD Policy Intern, you’ll:

• Gain first-hand experience of policymaking in central government
• Develop skills in communicating research to non-specialist audiences
• Build relationships across government and academia
• Deepen your understanding of how evidence informs government decision making
• Develop experience valuable for a career in academia, the Civil Service or elsewhere

Who can apply:

We’re looking for students who:

• Are enrolled on any PhD programme at a UK university
• Have funding that supports a placement of at least three months
• Have the support of their supervisor and university to undertake the placement
• Can complete the placement before their viva
• Have the right to work in the UK
• Are interested in applying research skills to public policy
• Can communicate complex ideas to non-specialists
• Enjoy working collaboratively in a fast-paced environment