Climate Systems Engineering initiative (CSEi) · University of Chicago
Part-time, 6–20 hours/week · $18/hour · Starting Autumn 2026
Help shape how the world tackles its toughest climate questions
Climate change is the defining challenge of our generation, and some of the most important conversations about how to respond are happening right here on campus. The University of Chicago is building a major new research hub, with an anticipated ten new faculty positions, dedicated to the science, technology, and policy of climate systems engineering.
At CSEi, researchers are asking big, urgent questions: What are the benefits and risks of technologies that could reduce the impacts of greenhouse gases already in our atmosphere? How should the world govern them? Our work spans open-system carbon removal like enhanced weathering, solar geoengineering, and efforts to slow the loss of glacial ice. We bring together voices from the sciences, humanities, social sciences, public policy, and law, because solving problems this complex takes every kind of thinker.
We’re looking for curious, motivated students to join our team and get an inside look at a cutting-edge research center as it grows.
Learn more at climateengineering.uchicago.edu
What you’ll do
As a Climate Systems Intern, you’ll be a key part of the team that keeps CSEi running, and you’ll see firsthand how a research center brings big ideas to life. You’ll connect with faculty, postdocs, fellows, and visitors, and serve as a friendly point of contact for students, staff, and the public. Along the way, you’ll gain exposure to research, academic programs, communications, and events.
Your work will vary with CSEi’s needs, so no two weeks will look exactly alike. You might find yourself:
- Supporting special events, from setup to the finishing touches
- Helping with communications and outreach that share CSEi’s work with campus and the world
- Creating materials for postdocs, faculty, fellows, and visiting researchers
- Researching information and building reports, presentations, and spreadsheets
- Drafting and proofreading documents
- Preparing meeting materials and capturing notes afterward
- Keeping databases, lists, and records organized and up to date
- Taking on special projects and supporting CSEi leadership with administrative tasks
What you’ll gain
- A front-row seat to a fast-growing research initiative working on one of the world’s most pressing issues
- Opportunites to support and work with leading faculty and researchers across disciplines
- Real-world professional experience in research administration, communications, project management and event planning
- Practical skills that carry over to any career path
- A flexible schedule built around your classes
Who we’re looking for
You don’t need to be a climate scientist, just someone who’s eager to learn and excited to contribute. You’ll thrive in this role if you:
- Are resourceful and enjoy solving problems
- Communicate clearly and warmly, in writing and in person
- Are flexible and happy to tackle both big projects and small tasks
- Can juggle multiple priorities and adapt when things shift
- Are comfortable with Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
- Can commit 6–20 hours per week during academic quarters
- Bonus: graphic design experience (Canva, Adobe or similar)
- Bonus: proficient in Python or MATLAB
All first- through fourth-year College students in any field of study are welcome to apply!
Schedule and pay
This role pays $18/hour for 6–20 hours per week during the 2026–27 academic year, with the possibility of renewal for 2027–28. Hours fall between 8:30am and 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.
We know your classes come first. Schedules are set each quarter: you’ll share your course schedule and preferred hours with your manager by Week 1, and we’ll finalize a plan together by Week 3. If you’re hired mid-quarter, we’ll set your schedule and start date accordingly.
How to apply
Email PDFs of your resume, cover letter, and any other relevant materials to info-csei@uchicago.edu with the subject line Climate Intern and your name. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews will continue until positions are filled, so don’t wait!