Spring 2027 Internship Opportunities with the Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Economics

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is now soliciting interest for unpaid Interns in the Bureau of Economics for Spring 2027. Both full-time and part-time opportunities are available. I wanted to reach out to let you know about this great opportunity for rising juniors and seniors with coursework in Economics, Statistics, Data Science, or Computer Science.

Below, we provide some application information for any of your students that might be interested in the position. We are open to this position being part of a person’s academic course of study (e.g., used for credit or independent study). Additional information about internships within the Bureau of Economics can be found on the FTC website, at: Intern Recruiting | Federal Trade Commission

Duties

In this role, you will gain real-world experience by working alongside PhD economists to protect consumers and promote competition in the US economy. Interns work with economists to support FTC matters, including:

• Providing economic and statistical analysis in support of antitrust investigations, consumer protection cases, and rulemaking.
• Conducting academic research and developing reports on the functioning of markets in the economy.

The ideal candidate for this position has

• A strong interest in and intuition for applied microeconomics.
• Proficiency in programming languages widely used in economics, statistics, and/or data science such as Stata, R, or Python.
• Excitement about conducting data analysis on a wide range of datasets in support of consumer protection and competition missions of the FTC.
• Interest and aptitude in working with PhD economists on economics research projects that serve the mission of the FTC.
• A desire to grow and build on skills in data analysis and microeconomics.

Position details

• Internships will run approximately from mid-January through April/May, with exact start and end dates determined based on candidate availability and the academic Spring Semester at their institution.
• The job location will be on site at the FTC Headquarters Building in Washington DC.
• Spring internships are available on both a full-time and part-time basis. Candidates will be evaluated without consideration of whether they are applying for a full-time or part-time position.
• The position is only available to US Citizens and Nationals.

How to apply

• Send a resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcript to econ_interns@ftc.gov
• The deadline for applications is 10/1/2026 at 11:59PM EST.
• Please note in your email that you are applying for the Spring semester, and whether you are interested in interning at the FTC full-time or part-time.

Tips for the application

• Cover letter: A strong cover letter will include the following:

• A discussion of your interest in economics and the FTC.
• Details on your experience with statistics, econometrics, and programming, including through coursework, class projects, employment, or any other experience.
• Details about your interest and experience with economic research, including any noteworthy projects, employment, or oral presentations.
• Details about your interest and experience in public policy, including in any topics related to antitrust or consumer protection, though these are not required.
• Any other relevant experience or interest.

Graduate School Information Sessions

The University of Maryland offers over 200 degree granting graduate programs. Attending Graduate School offers countless opportunities for professional, intellectual, and personal growth. Graduate degree holders can earn more money over a career and gain access to management and leadership roles. This semester, the Graduate School at the University of Maryland is holding virtual information sessions on earning a graduate degree. The “Why Graduate School” sessions will explore the benefits of pursuing a graduate education. We will also offer a session on “Preparing for Graduate School” where we will explore what it means to prepare for graduate school beyond having a strong academic record. 

To attend a session, please sign up here.

Graduate School Information sessions 

• “Why Graduate School” (in person in TYD 2111)
• Wednesday, September 30 at 4:00pm

• "Preparing for Graduate School" (virtual)
• Wednesday, October 14 at 3:00pm

• “Why Graduate School” (virtual)
• Tuesday, November 17 at 3:30pm 

Topics covered during “Why Graduate School” sessions

• Benefits of earning a graduate degree

• Tips on selecting a graduate school

• Cutting the cost of graduate tuition

Topics covered during the “Preparing for Graduate School” session:

• How is graduate school different from undergraduate study?

• What will I say in a personal statement?

• Who do I ask for a letter of recommendation?

Click here to sign up!

Demystifying a Career Path in Economics Webinar - Sept 18th

 

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York would like to invite college students, recent graduates, professors, and guidance counselors nationwide to attend our Fall 2026 webinar, Demystifying a Career Path in Economics, to be held on September 18, 2026, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. EDT.   The virtual event will provide information about careers in economics and tips for success in the field of economics. New York Fed economists and research analysts (RAs) will discuss the path to becoming an economist, why they chose this path, and their work at the Bank.   Economists and RAs, as well as representatives from the New York Fed’s People and Engagement department, will also cover tips for success in the field of economics (in college and beyond); potential career paths at the New York Fed and in the wider job market; the role of RAs and college-level interns in the Bank; and career-planning resources and mentoring information. Additionally, staff from Outreach and Education will share an overview of the Federal Reserve System.   Please register in advance here:  https://cvent.me/nNBk9R   Participants are encouraged to submit questions in advance when registering. There will also be opportunities for Q&A during the webinar.

Maryland AI Security Initiative

The Maryland AI Security Initiative is announcing a 9-week AI Security Fundamentals Fellowship to create a community at UMD dedicated to learning about these questions and meaningfully contributing to their answers. Through weekly meetings (with free dinner!), access to career-planning 1:1s with organizers, mini-projects, and social events, you’ll learn about topics like AI alignment, power concentration, and recursive self-improvement while becoming competitive for SPAR, GovAI fellowships, and similar technical and policy research opportunities.

Join us for one dinner each week to discuss current issues and learn about AI beyond the hype. No technical experience needed: we’re looking for fellows who think and care deeply about the future.

Apply today. Applications close September 20th at 11:59pm. Questions about the fellowship? RSVP to our interest meeting next Monday, 9/14 in IRB4105 @ 7:15 and join our GroupMe!

Email akocoglu@umd.edu with any questions or feedback.

Actuarial Science Info for UMD Students

Welcome to the Fall 2026 semester, for all students interested in Actuarial Math (Insurance Mathematics and Statistics) and potentially interested in an Actuarial Career.

The MATH department has many course offerings related to Actuarial studies -- mostly upper-level STAT courses (STAT 401, 410, 430, 420), plus some Financial Math courses (MATH 424, STAT 470), Data Science (STAT 426) and numerical analysis. The closest thing to an Actuarial track in the Math Major is the Statistics Track, and there is an Actuarial Minor for majors in other departments, and an Actuarial Advisor (Eric Slud, Professor in the STAT Program). See the departmental web-pages for information about the Math Major (Stat-track) and Actuarial Minor, and for general facts and links about the actuarial profession.

• https://www-math.umd.edu/undergraduate/math-majors.html?view=article&id=173:actuarial-science&catid=88
• https://www-math.umd.edu/undergraduate/math-minors.html

There is also an Actuarial Club which has been active in some (but not all) semesters in the past. The activities of the Club have generally included talks on Actuarial Career paths and prospects -- including presentations about internships from area actuarial companies and departments -- and math subject-matter talks given by guest speakers. But the primary role of the Club when it has run actively is as a support and coaching group where students help each other prepare for Actuarial Society exams.

There are currently two undergraduate students -- Christina Palmeri <cpalmeri@terpmail.umd.edu> and Grace Ma <gma0842@terpmail.umd.edu> -- who are interested in co-organizing the Club for this coming academic year. By all means get in touch with them directly if you are interested in joining. But if you are interested in joining, in receiving some academic advising related to Actuarial Studies, or in learning more about the actuarial profession and career paths, then please get in touch with the Club advisor, Professor Eric Slud (slud@umd.edu).

Cornerstone Research Summer Analyst and Full-time Analyst Positions

Hi UMD Econ!

My name is Andrew Li, and I’m a Research Associate at Cornerstone Research, an economic and financial consulting firm that provides expert testimony in high-profile litigation cases.  I began my work at Cornerstone Research as an analyst when I graduated from UMD in 2023.  My experience at Cornerstone has been rewarding in many aspects, as I have had the opportunity to work in collaborative teams and develop quantitative and qualitative skills.

 

Cornerstone would like to invite interested students at UMD to apply for our Analyst and Summer Analyst positions.  Detailed descriptions of the roles can be found on our website: https://www.cornerstone.com/Careers/analyst.

 

Please be aware of the application deadlines below. 

• Analyst: September 13, 2026 at 11:59 pm
• Summer Analyst: September 27, 2026 at 11:59 pm

 

Please also be aware that Cornerstone Research will be attending the following upcoming events at UMD:

• Employer of the Day – 9/9/2026, 12:30 PM–3:00 PM
• Cornerstone Research Information Session – 9/9/2026, 6:30 PM–8:00 PM
• ECON Networking and Career Fair – 9/15/2026, 4:30 PM–7:00 PM

 

While visiting UMD’s campus, we will also be hosting coffee chats at Starbucks (7336 Baltimore Ave) on 9/9/2026 from 3:30 PM–4:30 PM. Please fill out this form if you are interested: Link.

 

As a quick introduction to our firm and culture, Cornerstone:

• Recruits students from all majors; we find that our most successful analysts have demonstrated interest in research and desire to learn complex economic and financial concepts
• Works across industries including antitrust, healthcare, finance, intellectual property, and securities and has a generalist model that provides analysts with opportunities across sectors
• Maintains a positive work-life balance, supporting our diverse staff, with a strong analyst culture

 

This, combined with the firm’s long-standing relationships with our clients, makes Cornerstone an ideal place to start a career.  Analysts from Cornerstone often go on to top M.B.A., J.D., or Ph.D. graduate programs or proceed directly into technology, business, finance, or nonprofit work.

Apply to be a Part of the Smith Investment Fund

 

The Smith Investment Fund (SIF) is now accepting applications for new members. SIF offers students hands-on experience in investment research, exposure to financial markets, and structured professional development. General Interest Meetings will be held on September 8th and 10th at 7 pm and the Women in Finance Meeting will be September 9th at 7 pm (rooms TBA). Applications are open from August 31st to September 13th. More information and the application link are available here: https://forms.gle/XxJJg1BGfic9RYS36.

Boston Fed Research Associate Opportunity

The Research Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston is currently accepting applications for our research associate program for positions that start in June 2027.   

  
The research associate (RA) program at the Boston Fed is a two-year program designed for recent college graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s in economics, math, statistics, or a related field. It is a great opportunity to gain knowledgeable experience in longer term economic research projects as well as exposure to monetary policy. 
 
Additional details about the program including the application link can be found on the web: Research Associate Program

BSOS Suit Yourself Clothing Award

 

Need professional clothing for an upcoming career fair, graduate school interview, internship, or networking event?

The BSOS Suit Yourself Clothing Award provides a one-time $200 award to all current BSOS undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need for professional clothing. The application is brief and easy to complete.

Dress to impress for upcoming professional opportunities, including:

• Career & Internship Fairs at UMD
• Federal Employer Sessions
• Intern for a Day
• View examples of professional attire

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after the deadline until available funds are exhausted.

*Please note: Students who have previously received a Suit Yourself award are not eligible for a second stipend.

Sponsored by the Feller Center for Advising & Career Planning in BSOS.

Questions? Contact the Feller Center at bsoscareers@umd.edu.

Brookings Research Assistant Opportunities for 2027

The Economic Studies Program at the Brookings Institution is recruiting for several full-time research assistant positions beginning in summer 2027. These two-year appointments are an excellent opportunity for recent graduates interested in economic and public policy research.
 
Students can read more about being a research assistant in Economic Studies here.
 
Apply here to the Economic Studies research assistant pool. The preferred start date is between June 1 and July 31, 2027.
 
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree by summer 2027 in economics, mathematics/statistics, public policy, or another social science with a minor in economics.
 
Applications are due October 16, 2026, and will be reviewed after the deadline. We expect to complete selections by mid-November.
 
We are also recruiting for two opportunities with The Hamilton Project:
 
Research Assistant, The Hamilton Project
 
Senior Research Assistant, The Hamilton Project — please note that this position requires at least one year of relevant research work experience and is more appropriate for alumni.
 
The Hamilton Project positions are best suited for candidates with an undergraduate degree in economics, data science, statistics, public policy, or another social science with a minor in economics. The preferred start date is between May 1 and July 1, 2027.
 
The Hamilton Project applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted within 4–6 weeks of submission, potentially earlier.
 
All positions are hybrid and based in Washington, DC. Application requirements differ by position, so applicants should read each posting carefully.