Job Classification: Part Time Intern
Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Remote with occasional onsite meetings (preference for Illinois residents)
Hours: Up to 20 hours per week, on a flexible schedule determined collaboratively with the Director of Advocacy and Policy
Position
The National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS) is on a mission to transform science toward more human-relevant and humane solutions. NAVS’ advocacy efforts are focused on advancing legislation and regulations that deliver more human-relevant results while reducing the reliance on and use of animals. We advocate for these changes with diverse audiences, including supporters, grant-making organizations, government agencies, legislators, and scientists.
As a Public Policy and Program Support Intern, you’ll be a vital contributor to NAVS’ efforts to drive meaningful legislative and regulatory change at both the state and federal levels. You’ll work at the intersection of science, law, and advocacy—helping to shape programs and policies that accelerate the transition toward humane, human-relevant research.
This position is ideal for someone who is motivated by purpose, eager to make an impact, and ready to actively engage in every aspect of our advocacy strategies.
Primary Responsibilities
- Track and Analyze Legislation: Proactively monitor NAVS’ legislative tracking platform (GovHawk) to identify, flag, and brief the team on relevant state and federal bills and regulations. Summarize key developments and provide recommendations to help shape advocacy strategy.
- Action Alerts and Communications: Translate complex policy issues into persuasive messages that mobilize grassroots supporters and inspire action.
- USDA APHIS Data Monitoring: Regularly mine the USDA APHIS Animal Welfare Act database to track and analyze facility inspection reports and annual animal use reports, ensuring accurate and timely updates. Identify trends and opportunities to support NAVS’ transparency and reform initiatives.
- LACA Support: Assist in compiling and verifying data for the Laboratory Animal Care Audit (LACA), requiring a very high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Ensure deliverables meet established deadlines and quality standards.
- Research and Advocacy Support: Conduct legislative and regulatory research to support campaigns on issues such as New Approach Methodologies (NAMS), post-research adoption policies, and humane education. Synthesize findings into concise, actionable insights for internal and external use.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Help identify and implement opportunities for grassroots engagement, coalition building, and outreach to legislators, regulators, and partner organizations. Contribute to strategic relationship mapping and help organize briefings or virtual meetings with key decision-makers.
- Regulatory Transparency: Prepare and submit FOIA and state records requests to advance NAVS’ campaigns. Follow up to ensure timely responses and help manage resulting data for use in advocacy communications.
- Programmatic Support: Assist in advocacy initiatives tied to NAVS’ Crossroads 2029 campaign, humane education programs, and promotion of NAMS.
- Proactive Opportunity Identification: Take initiative in proposing new ideas, identifying emerging policy opportunities, and improving processes that strengthen NAVS’ advocacy impact.
- Other duties as assigned.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We’re looking for a motivated future leader in animal welfare and policy who brings:
- A demonstrated passion for animal protection, animal law, or science policy.
- A strong understanding of the legislative and regulatory process.
- Exceptional research, analytical, and persuasive writing skills.
- Takes initiative: someone who seeks opportunities to act.
- Creative thinking in communications and advocacy campaigns.
- A growth mindset—willing to ask questions, learn quickly, and contribute ideas.
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legislative environment.
- Excellent attention to detail, particularly in handling data and official records.
Why Intern With NAVS?
This internship isn’t about busywork—it’s about building your future as an advocate for humane science. You’ll:
- Gain hands-on experience in real-world policy advocacy.
- Work alongside experienced advocates and contribute to meaningful legislative efforts.
- Develop practical skills in research, data analysis, and persuasive communication that will set you apart in careers in animal protection, law, or public policy.
- Make a measurable impact on the advancement of human-relevant science and the reduction of animal use in research.
Other:
- The National Anti-Vivisection Society is an equal opportunity employer.
- This is an at will, hourly, non-exempt position that is not eligible for benefits. Hourly rate: $16.60.
- Online applications must include Cover Letter and Resume. Applications must be submitted by December 8, 2025.
