Recruitment

What We Look For

Are you passionate about solving real-world policy problems? Do you want hands-on experience in policy consulting or public affairs? At the Research and Strategy Group (RSG), you’ll work with a team of Harvard students to deliver high-impact, pro-bono consulting to mission-driven organizations.

We welcome students from all backgrounds, experiences, and concentrations — whether you study Government, Economics, Sociology, Biology, or something entirely different. No matter your academic or professional journey, if you're passionate about policy and strategy, there's a place for you at RSG.

We Look For:

• Intellectual curiosity and a willingness to tackle complex, interdisciplinary challenges

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal 

• Team players who thrive in collaborative settings 

• Commitment to impact and a passion for public service, social innovation, or policy 

• Prior experience with research, consulting, data analysis, or policy is a bonus — but absolutely not required

What You'll Do

As a student consultant with RSG, you'll join a tight-knit team of 5–8 Harvard undergraduates to take on a semester-long project for a real-world client — from nonprofit organizations and government agencies to policy advocacy groups and social enterprises.

Throughout the engagement, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Conduct Applied Research: Dive into policy reports, academic literature, legislative proposals, and stakeholder perspectives to build a deep understanding of your client’s challenge.

• Develop Strategic Recommendations: Translate your research into clear, actionable strategies tailored to your client’s goals. This could mean drafting a policy memo, outlining an advocacy roadmap, or proposing implementation plans.

• Engage with Clients and Experts: Participate in regular check-ins with your client and get feedback on your team’s direction. Many teams also interview subject-matter experts, policymakers, or practitioners to inform their work.

• Collaborate in a Case Team: Work closely with peers from across Harvard’s disciplines. You’ll gain project management experience, practice giving and receiving feedback, and learn to divide and conquer complex deliverables.

• Present Real Deliverables: At the end of the semester, your team will present a professional, client-facing report or briefing — sometimes in the form of a policy memo, toolkit, strategic roadmap, or visual presentation.

Along the way, you'll gain:

• Transferable skills in research, communication, and strategic thinking

• Experience with real-world policy consulting frameworks

• Confidence in presenting ideas and managing ambiguity 

• A deeper understanding of how change happens in the public sector and beyond

No matter your starting point, you’ll walk away from RSG with the tools, mentorship, and experience to lead in public service, policy, advocacy, or beyond.