KIP Spring 2026 - Research Assistant: Opioid Harm Reduction Policy - R Street Institute

The Koch Internship Program (KIP) is a paid, 12-week experiential learning program run by Stand Together Fellowships that offers meaningful work experience at non-profits all over the United States tackling some of our nation's most pressing challenges. Eligible candidates will be geographically located within the U.S. and authorized to work in the U.S. through the duration of the program.
Throughout your internship, you will gain meaningful professional experience at a partner organization and participate in professional development built around a 2-day, in-person summit hosted by Stand Together Fellowships at Stand Together's Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, supported by virtual programming that takes place every other Thursday between 1- 3:30 pm ET. Interns will receive either a $7,500 or $5,500 stipend from Stand Together Fellowships depending on whether they are participating full-time (40 hours/week) or part-time (24 hours/week).
The programming provided by Stand Together Fellowships focuses on three objectives:
1. understanding the foundational principles of a free society such as individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and the rule of law;2. learning the Stand Together community's vision for change and how a principled approach to problem solving can help address society's biggest challenges; and3. presenting opportunities and pathways to build a career that advances liberty and free society.
Successful candidates will interview with both our non-profit partner organizations and Stand Together Fellowships staff, so we strongly encourage you to apply in advance!
Please note that all Koch Internship Program interns MUST be available every other Thursday (Jan. 22, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26, and April 9) from 1-3:30 PM ET for virtual professional development training AND the in-person summit at Stand Together's Headquarters in Arlington, VA Feb. 6-Feb. 7.
Founded in 2012, the R Street Institute is the leading think tank engaged in policy research in support of free markets and limited, effective government. We believe in a smarter, more efficient government that does not interfere with people’s abilities to stay as safe and healthy as possible, even if they engage in risky behaviors. In this role you will work with the Integrated Harm Reduction (IHR) Policy team to understand, explain, and advocate for policy that  •expands people’s access to tools/interventions that reduce the risks associated with substance use, and  •reduces barriers to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorder.
This is a part-time role, open to onsite or remote talent.

Responsibilities

• Assist scholars with research on behavioral health and substance regulation. May include: literature reviews, coding interviews, analyzing data, reviewing state regulatory documents, writing. 
• Work with policy team to develop short-form educational content based on policy research
• Assist team with legislative outreach and advocacy
• Support R Street IHR scholars as needed

Requirements

• Strong writing skills and demonstrated critical thinking ability.
• Experience or interest in public health, health policy, or a related field.
• A cover letter explaining the applicant’s interest in the role.
• Individuals with lived or living experience are encouraged to apply.

Stand Together Fellowships believes that diversity in experiences, perspectives, knowledge and ideas fuels creativity, broadens knowledge, and helps drive success. Our admissions office treats all program participants and applicants with honesty, dignity, respect and sensitivity. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of color, race, religion, religious creed, sex, gender or gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, ancestry, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy (including medical needs which may arise from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), military and veteran status, genetic information, marital or familial status, political affiliation, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.