The Public Accountability Initiative (PAI) is seeking research interns with a keen interest in developing muckraking skills and investigating networks of powerful individuals and institutions using online research and web tools.
The Public Accountability Initiative, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is a Buffalo-based think-and-do tank focused on corporate and government accountability. We facilitate and produce investigative research that supports grassroots community action and promotes sound institutional governance.
PAI's focal project is LittleSis.org, a recently-launched research site that brings transparency to influential social networks (in the manner of an "involuntary facebook of powerful people"). A citizens' answer to Big Brother, LittleSis has gained recognition from leading watchdogs, media outlets, and web 2.0 advocates for its innovative approach to investigative research. We're looking for interns interested in politics, journalism and citizen watchdogging.
See a recent feature about us in The Buffalo News for a better sense of what we do:
http://www.buffalonews.com/cityregion/story/779121.html
Description
The internship program revolves around investigative research projects powered by LittleSis.org. Interns will participate in ongoing research tasks, develop and pursue small independent research projects, and contribute to a PAI investigation focusing on Wall Street institutions and large non-profit endowments.
Interns may initiate research projects on a broad range of topics, but should be focused on mapping the relevant "power structure": the most influential individuals and organizations within the domain of interest, and their key relationships.
Interns can expect to strengthen their research skills; master the use of advanced databases, data sets, and archives; deepen their analysis of breaking news stories and other media content; and develop an enhanced understanding of power and influence in American society.
Duties & Responsibilities
Interns are required to commit at least 10 hours per week. Must bring own laptop computer with wireless capabilities to our office on Buffalo's West Side. This is an unpaid internship. Beginning and end dates are flexible.
Interns are asked to do the following:
* Master editing tools on LittleSis.org and contribute information in areas of interest.
* Execute specialized research tasks on key power brokers and institutions.
* Contribute to PAI investigations focusing on health care, climate change, and Wall Street.
* Write regular "notes" communicating findings on LittleSis.org.
* Participate in weekly check-ins with intern coordinator.
Qualifications
* Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
* Strong interest in and knowledge of current events in business, finance, politics, and government.
* Strong interest in social justice and open government.
* Underdog tendencies.
* Mastery of Facebook, Twitter, Wikipedia, and other web 2.0 applications.
* Bonus: background in sociology or journalism.
To apply, please send resume and cover letter to Kevin Connor, admin [AT] littlesis [dot] org.
