Organization Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

Organization: Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) 

• Full Address: Defense Threat Reduction Agency 

8725 John J. Kingman Road, Stop 6201 

Fort Belvoir, VA 22060-6201 

• Website: www.dtra.mil 

• Agency/Department Director: Rear Admiral John T. Byrd (USN/RET), Director 

Cooperative Threat Reduction Directorate 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: 

Direct Supervisor: Mr. Shawn Cali, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Program 

Manager for the Biological Threat Reduction Program (BTRP) 

Mentor: Mr. Marshall Martin, Threat Reduction Support Center, Deputy Task 

Lead of the BTRP Support Team 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June 15 – August 15 (flexible per 

the student’s schedule or needs) 

• Hours of the program (placements should equal 35-40 hours per week or 350 

hours for the summer): Generally, 0800-1600 daily, though flexible 

Placement Description 

Please type responses onto this document and follow the format below. Please make sure 

that the question appears before each of your responses. 

• Project Description Summary Statement (Overall goal, type of work, population 

served, work site, etc. Approximately one paragraph.): 

The Biological Threat Reduction Program’s objectives are to reduce the risk of 

bioterrorism and prevent proliferation of biological weapons (BW) technology, expertise, and 

extremely dangerous pathogens (EDPs). The U.S. has Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) 

implementing agreements with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine and 

Armenia to assist them in preventing the proliferation of BW materials and expertise to rogue 

states and terrorist groups, increase transparency, encourage high standards of conduct by 

scientists, and preempt a “brain drain” of bio-related expertise. All BTRP projects in Russia are 

governed by the ISTC Agreement and the ISTC Funding Memorandum of Agreement. BTRP is 

executed through three projects, each of which serves a different objective of the CTR Program: 

Biological Weapons Infrastructure Elimination, Biosecurity and Biosafety (BS&S) and Threat 

Agent Detection and Response (TADR), and Cooperative Biological Research (CBR). 

The summer intern, most likely based at the TRSC and/or the DTRA, would be 

expected to support the BTRP mission by working closely with the Program Manager, 

Country Managers, and Threat Reduction Support Center team in specific topics and 

needs. Some of the areas of support include: research and analysis of current biosafety 

and biosecurity approaches in several of the program’s recipient state countries; analysis

of “gaps” in capabilities between existing infrastructures and the BTRP program goals, 

and other technical, management, or acquisition support. 

• Specific skills/experience required for the project (Please list): 

Student must have an interest in international affairs, project management, and 

science/technology. Strong quantitative or writing skills desired; must be a team player 

and be able to take initiative. Language skills in Russian, Georgian, or other languages of 

the former Soviet Union desired. Must be a US citizen, and eligible for clearance. 

• Specific skills the student will develop while working on project (Please list): 

Student will gain an understanding of US Cooperative Threat Reduction Programs, 

particularly the Biological Threat Reduction Program, which operates in six countries of 

the former Soviet Union. Familiarity with especially dangerous pathogens and the efforts 

the USG makes to counter the threat of their deliberate or accidental use. The student will 

be expected to challenge their presentation and writing skills, including development of 

data gathering and analytical approaches. 

• Brief description of the proposed direct supervisor/project mentor and why they 

would be committed to being involved in this program: 

For this intern, there will essentially be “dual” supervisors/mentors. The primary 

supervisor, Mr. Shawn Cali, works out of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency 

headquarters. All efforts will be made to secure interim clearance for the intern, so that 

s/he can work directly from that facility. Mr. Cali is an engaged, committed supervisor 

who values the impact of interns, and has relied on their help for valuable projects in the 

past. His program and team regularly seeks out Presidential Management Fellows and 

other program-based staff, and has demonstrated success in working with these 

individuals on long or short-term bases. Mr. Marshall Martin will serve as the day-to-day 

mentor, working from the Threat Reduction Support Center. Mr. Martin sponsored three 

students last summer and understands the caliber of the students, and the need to work 

closely with them to ensure that the summer is a success for all stakeholders. 

• Please write a complete description of the project you propose (position 

description) and the ways in which it relates to the goals of your organization. In 

addition, please include a potential position title that a fellow might assume. 

(Suggested length: one page) 

The BTRP program is complex and involves many different aspects from technical 

support in biosafety & biosecurity to contracting and project management. Depending on 

the skills and interests of the intern, the specific position description would vary. Listed 

below are three primary areas of support required; we would anticipate that the intern 

would work in only one of these three areas, as a “Program Assistant” regardless of the 

specific role.

1. New Country Engagement 

BTRP has received funding to expand the program's mission beyond the currentlyengaged 

countries. Intern support would benefit the initial research efforts needed to 

successfully engage these new countries. An intern with strong research, analysis and 

writing skills is needed to support data gathering efforts (information about country 

infrastructure, budgets, government structure, geopolitical issues, governmental agencies 

and NGOs who are currently working in-country). A student with background and 

interest in political science, international affairs and/or public health would be best suited 

to this work. 

2. Biosecurity 

Biosecurity is a core component of the BTRP program. Although we are now fully 

staffed in our biosecurity subject matter expert needs, a number of specific short-term 

project areas would benefit the TRSC team and BTRP Program. Specific topics and 

tasks in this area are as follows: 

a. Develop several short papers (i.e. approx. 10 pages each) on topics of 

acquisition and planning importance to the program, such as: 

i. Impact of the Animal Rights community on law-making/elections 

in the US, and, ideally, in some of our key partner countries 

overseas 

ii. Current approaches and contemporary issues of biosecurity in the 

USA 

iii. Psychological profile of known Bioterrorism Actors and/or 

motivations 

iv. Psychological impact of an outbreak on the target population and 

its impact on healthcare in the region 

For these topics, we believe that a student with a policy/international affairs background 

would be effective. 

3. General Duties: 

There are also broad programmatic areas that require assistance. For example, assistance 

in creating a list of known security products and assigning prices and values to them, and 

vetting them through export control to create a master list of known products and 

capabilities would be helpful. This would improve TRSC’s and the contractors’ ability to 

quickly and accurately estimate costs and lead times of products. In addition, basic data 

gathering and number crunching assistance for Project storyboards, and other contracting 

actions would be useful. Finally, basic support in knowledge management, filing, and 

archiving to create "project histories" and a "project library" would be helpful. 

Conclusion 

In summary, we believe that the roles/responsibilities outlined above will equate to an 

interesting project for the summer.

Organization: Office of Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro 

Full Address: 2262 Rayburn House Office Building 

Washington, DC 20515 

• Website: delauro.house.gov 

• Agency/Department Director: J. Kevin Brennan, Chief of Staff 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: 

Asa Lopatin, Staff Assistant/Intern Coordinator 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): 6/1-7/31 


hours for the summer): M-F 9-5 or M-Th (9-6). *specific hours and days can 

be negotiated. 




• Project Description Summary Statement: (Overall goal, type of work, population 

served, work site, etc. Approximately one paragraph.) Interns will gain valuable 

knowledge of the legislative process as well as the day-to-day operations of a 

Congressional office. Responsibilities will include drafting correspondence, 

aiding staff with research, reporting on hearings and briefings, providing 

administrative support, guiding Capitol tours, and maintaining constituent 

database. 

• Specific skills/experience required for the project (Please list): Excellent 

research and writing skills are required for the work that will be expected of 

interns in our office. Candidates must have the maturity and 

professionalism befitting employment by the United States House of 

Representatives. 


Students will develop their professional writing skills as well as their ability 

to work under pressure. Deadlines will be strictly enforced and a high 

quality of work will be expected for all assignments.


would be committed to being involved in this program: As a former Capitol Hill 

intern for several Congressional offices, Asa understands the benefits of this 

kind of work. Since Asa is a recent college graduate himself, he has been 

able to relate well to past interns and serve as a go-between for interns and 

full-time staff. 





By performing the tasks described in the previous item, interns play an 

important role in the day-to-day operations of our office. As interns are 

expected to provide substantive support to all staff members, this dynamic 

greatly improves the quality and efficiency of work completed. It also gives 

interns useful hands-on experience in the legislative field. 

In the past, interns have simply held the title of intern, as this is an official 

distinction for security purposes. Our office would be open to discussing the 

possibility of forming a program to meet the specific needs of qualified 

applicants. 

Organization: Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) 

Acquisition, Technology & Logistics (AT&L) / Acquisition 

Resources & Analysis (ARA) / Acquisition Management (AM) 

• Full Address: Room 3D161, 3020 Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC 20301- 

3020 

• Website: http://www.acq.osd.mil/ara/office-am.htm 

• Agency/Department Director: Acquisition Management / Mr. Ric Sylvester 

(Senior Executive Service (SES)) 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Mr. Jeff Tucker – 

Program Analyst (Acquisition Strategy & Program Oversight) 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June – August, 2008, flexible to 

student needs


hours for the summer): 9 AM – 5 PM, flexible 




• Project Description Summary Statement: 

Focus on the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) most expensive, largest and 

complex future weapons systems and the process by which they are acquired – arguably 

the most comprehensive acquisition process in the world. Serve US taxpayers and war 

fighter Services (Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, etc) by working to ensure costeffective, 

timely systems for National and world-wide security. Support the President’s 

budget, Congressional law and direction and Service needs under the direction of the 

Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics (USD(AT&L)). 

Experience work in the Pentagon. 


The student should work well with others and be able to work independently. 

Willingness to learn and/or cope with government/DoD jargon and acronyms is a 

necessity. A professional interest in military systems and/or government acquisition is a 

strong plus. Self-starting initiative is a desired trait. Ability to attain an interim Secret 

clearance is mandatory (no foreign nationals, etc). 


This program will primarily focus on development of improved policy and 

guidance for DoD including program oversight efforts. The student will be in-situ with 

the mentor in the performing office, in the Pentagon, thus ‘living’ the environment. 

Honing research skills on statutory and regulatory information will be included in the 

duties. Understanding, or at least appreciation, of the war fighting capability needs, and 

the technical means for accomplishing those needs is inherent in the responsibilities for 

the select systems of focus. A variety of working level and formal products, and their 

development process, will be included in the responsibilities for the student. 



The project mentor, Mr. Jeff Tucker, has a strong interest in the development of 

young professionals and in the realization of their potential, in or out of civil service. Mr.

Tucker values the contribution of student-professionals, and served in a similar capacity 

with the Navy prior to entering civil service. This project shares common objectives with 

the hosting office’s goals and responsibilities, and Mr. Tucker’s objectives specifically. 





The primary focus of this project will be to support the improvement of policy 

and guidelines for the development of Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) 

information for development and deployment of materiel solutions. The strategy to 

acquire a weapons system answering to a DoD or Service capability need, aka 

Acquisition Strategy (AS), is a fundamental requirement and a capstone document for a 

successful Defense acquisition. The breadth of information and information types in an 

AS is broader than any half-dozen experts can master. The information to support an 

MDAP’s milestone decision is broader still. 

Two primary lines of focus for this project are: a) at a high level, synthesize 

specific aspects/disciplines of acquisition strategy requirements into clarified guidance; 

and, b) identify trends and/or ‘trip-wires’ for specific aspects of acquisition. 

For “a)”, an example could be to focus on the strategic requirements for the 

development of technology (Technology Development Strategy) and to assist in the 

definition of improved guidelines for the successful maturation of technology. In this 

example there is a confluence of statutory and regulatory requirements that need to be 

considered across a range of acquisition types (ships, tanks, aircraft, weapons, etc). The 

resulting product could be a description of identified metrics and events (e.g. 

developmental test) that should be identified prior to system integration. Such a product 

could then be a part of, or used to develop new policy. 

Cost, schedule, and performance are the three top-level metrics for Defense 

acquisition programs, and understanding the ‘drivers’ and ‘lessons-learned’ related to 

programmatic performance in any one of these three constitutes a productive and 

formidable research effort. 

For the second line of focus, trends and/or trip-wires, an example project could be 

to focus on schedule as it has been planned and executed over a variety of programs 

and/or program types. Notionally, identifying that no successful aircraft program has 

ever proceeded from its requirements review to its critical design review in less than 3 

years would be a valuable trip-wire for the next ‘stealth plane’ that plans to do it in 30 

months. Such trends could assist in the early identification of needed oversight resources 

and/or an industry review, etcetera. A product for this type of focus is likely to be 

comprised of qualitative and quantitative raw data that can be used in future analysis.

We believe that the opportunities to add value to our organizational objectives are 

many and would provide valuable experience for the student professional. 

In addition, we believe that the responsibilities of this office would be best suited 

for a rising Tufts senior. 

A potential position title could be “Acquisition Research Assistant”. 

Organization: Office of Under Secretary of Defense for 

Acquisition, Technology and Logistics/Director of Acquisition 

Resources and Analysis – External Customer Affairs 

• Full Address: 3020 Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC 20301 

• Website: http://www.acq.osd.mil/ 

• Agency/Department Director: Dr. Nancy Spruill, Director of Acquisition 

Resources and 

Analysis 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Ms. Lyndi Balven; 

Senior Program Analyst 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June/July/August – 

dates mutually acceptable to both parties 


hours for the summer): 8 hours per day/5 days per week 





served, work site, etc. Approximately one paragraph.) 

The mission of the Acquisition Resources and Analysis Department is to 

coordinate defense acquisition and technology planning, programming, and 

budgeting process activities, acquisition process policy and oversight, 

Congressional actions, office automation activities, and Office of the Secretary of 

Defense (OSD) Studies and Federally Funded Research and Development Center 

(FFRDC program management).

The External Customer Support Division provides customer-focused services to 

the key leaders in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the defense 

acquisition, technology and logistics community on legislative activities; to 

include Congressional hearings including witness testimony and associated 

questions and answers, proposed legislation, positions on AT&L matters to 

Congress, Congressional inquiries, reports to Congress, General Accounting 

Office (GAO) / Inspector General (IG) reviews; foreign scientist waivers, Ready 

Book preparation and other mission critical assignments. Individual will work 

directly in providing these services. Individual will interface with all internal 

USD(AT&L) organizations as well as external organizations such as the 

Department of Defense Comptroller, the Office of Legislative Counsel, 

Legislative Affairs, DoD IG, etc. 


o Have the ability to work in a team and communicate effectively, both orally 

and in writing. 

o Have initiative and ability to work independently. 

o Have strong organizational and analytical abilities. 

o Be able to view issues from different perspectives. 

o Be able to implement new ideas and processes effectively. 

o Be able to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced, dynamic environment, with 

extended hours when necessary. 


Opportunity to: 

o Make a difference and improve acquisition policies, processes, and 

procedures. 

o Interact with senior officials in the Department and the Federal Government; 

gain understanding of issues and challenges at the highest levels of 

leadership within the Department of Defense (DoD). 

o Develop insight into: 1) how budget and policy is formulated and modified 

within the legislative process, 2) appropriations/authorization development, 

3) hearings and appeals. 

o Promote new and different perspectives into senior acquisition policy 

making, while engaging in a career-broadening experience. 



Ms. Balven has proven skills in business development, project 

management/execution, and enterprise leadership. Recognized leader for 

consistently meeting goals and delivering innovative, performance-oriented

solutions. Known for creating synergy within culturally and professionally 

diverse organizations. Record of turning challenges into opportunities and issues 

into solutions; committed to workforce development and providing growth 

opportunities for the future. 





Assignments may include any of the following: 

(1) Interaction with senior executives in the Department of Defense, leaders in the 

legislative branch, and a variety of counterparts in internal and external 

organizations. 

(2) Research issues, develop recommendations, and present material in support of 

high-visibility mission critical acquisitions, technology and logistics programs. 

Provide input to Overarching Integrated Product Team Read Aheads. 

(3) Review portions of the Department of Defense authorization and/or 

appropriation act (Congressional language) that have been “marked”, or 

changed by Congress, and draft and coordinate “appeals” to restore statutory 

language or funding levels. 

(4) Prepare documentation and build prep books for Congressional hearings, draft 

written Congressional testimony, respond to questions, coordinate answers, etc 

as appropriate to prepare senior leadership for Congressional hearings. 

(5) Conduct AT&L legislative proposal call, review and edit proposed legislation 

in support of the Under Secretary of Defense (AT&L) and the acquisition, 

technology and logistics community. Submit approved proposals to Office of 

Legislative Counsel and track through the Secretary of Defense staff review 

process, submission to the Office of Management and Budget, and White House 

clearance process. Maintain spreadsheet with current status for Director. 

(6) Respond to high priority/mission critical tasks as they arise and respond 

accordingly. 

(7) Other responsibilities include keeping the leadership informed and responding 

to Government Accounting Office (GAO)/Inspector General (IG) reviews, and 

scientist waivers. 

(8) Participate on teams and interact with cross-functional team members on OSD 

staff.

The student will have the position title of Congressional Project Assistant. 

Organization: Office of the Under Secretary of Defense 

(Acquisition, Technology & Logistics) Acquisition, 

Resources & Analysis / Resources Analysis 

(OUSD(AT&L)/ARA/RA) 

• Full Address: 

OUSD(AT&L)/ARA/RA 

3000 Defense, The Pentagon 


• Website: ARA: http://www.acq.osd.mil/ara/ 

ARA/RA: http://www.acq.osd.mil/ara/office-ra.htm 

• Agency/Department Director: Nancy L. Spruill/Director, Acquisition Resources 

and 

Analysis/OUSD(AT&L)/ARA 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Stanley Azebu, 

Operations 

Research Analyst 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June 2 – August 8 (Flexible) 


hours for the summer): 35-40 hrs/week 






The overall goal of the Resource Analysis office is to provide efficient and 

effective oversight of Department of Defense weapon system investment funding ( 

approximately $203 billion (B) in Fiscal Year (FY) 2009), and effective and efficient 

spending of internal program funding (~$2B in FY 2009). This office must ensure that 

resources are aligned in the programs and budgets as directed by various guidance, and

that they are being spent as planned. The worksite is the Pentagon, and the efforts 

support the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics) and his 

staff. There is frequent interaction with other offices of the Secretary of Defense, the 

Services and Defense Agencies. The work can be fast paced, with short deadlines, and 

accuracy is a premium. 


The individual selected must have excellent written and oral communication skills; 

he/she must be able to distill the important facts and issues from voluminous information. 

He/she must be able to work and think independently with little supervision after being 

given instructions on the task to be accomplished. Microsoft Office skills are preferred. 


The student will become familiar with the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and 

Execution (PPBE) process used by the Department of Defense to plan, budget, and spend 

the billions of dollars appropriated by Congress each year. The student will learn how 

the Department operates, its various functional elements, and will have real hands-on 

experience participating in working/study groups that influence the resource allocation 

process for the FY 2011 President’s Budget. 



Proposed project mentor started his government career as a student intern in the 

Office of the Comptroller of the Army. He has worked previously with other interns, 

ranging from high school seniors, to undergraduate/graduate students, to military officer 

interns. He has developed work assignments for Defense Department employees who 

were detailed to the Resource Analysis office. He believes that the Department must 

provide real world working opportunities in order to attract motivated, intelligent young 

Americans to government service. The work must be interesting, and the student must 

learn something from the experience that will be of benefit in the future, wherever he/she 

is eventually employed. 





Acquisition Program/Budget Aide:

Program/Budget Review Actions– 

• Assist in the development of the internal OUSD(AT&L) FY 2011 Program 

Objective Memorandum/Budget Estimates Submission (POM/BES) (~$2B). 

o Solicit, collect, and review funding adjustments requested by the 

AT&L staff 

o Assist in the development of recommendations for funding 

enhancements/offsets. 

o Develop briefings for AT&L senior leadership. 

o Assist in the writing of funding justification for the FY 2011 

President’s Budget. 

• Assist in the review of Service/Defense Agency FY 2011 POM/BES 

(~$200B) 

o Participate in the FY 2011 Program/Budget Reviews. 

o Issue teams - identify your area of interest; participate, prepare 

summaries and raise issues to AT&L leadership. 

o Budget hearings - identify your area of interest; attend hearings, 

identify issues. 

• Monitor Congressional action on the FY 2009 internal AT&L budget request 

o Identify directed actions, reports, etc 

• Assist in year-end FY 09 execution 

o Below threshold reprogrammings, reallocation of resources 

• Other Actions – The student, through contact and working with other staff and 

contractor employees in the office, may identify a specific program/issue that 

is of significant interest to him/her. If appropriate, a special project can be 

developed around the special interest. 

Organization: Science Applications International Corporation 

(SAIC) Threat Reduction Support Center 

• Full Address: SAIC 

Threat Reduction Support Center 

6350 Walker Lane, Suite 110 

Alexandria, VA 22310 

• Website: www.saic.com 

• Agency/Department Director: Biological Threat Reduction Program 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor:

Direct Supervisor: Mr. Craig Wright, Threat Reduction Support Center, Task 

Leader of the BTRP Support Team 

Mentor: Mr. Marshall Martin, Threat Reduction Support Center, Deputy Task 

Lead of the BTRP Support Team 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June 15 – August 15 (flexible per 

student schedule or needs) 


hours for the summer): Generally, 0800-1600 daily, though flexible 




• Project Description Summary Statement (Overall goal, type of work, population 

served, work site, etc. Approximately one paragraph.): 

The Biological Threat Reduction Program’s (BTRP) objectives are to reduce the risk of 

bioterrorism and prevent proliferation of biological weapons (BW) technology, expertise, 

and extremely dangerous pathogens (EDPs). The U.S. has Cooperative Threat Reduction 

(CTR) implementing agreements with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, 

Ukraine and Armenia to assist them in preventing the proliferation of BW materials and 

expertise to rogue states and terrorist groups, increase transparency, encourage high 

standards of conduct by scientists, and preempt a loss of bio-related expertise. All BTRP 

projects in Russia are governed by the ISTC Agreement and the ISTC Funding 

Memorandum of Agreement. BTRP is executed through three projects, each of which 

serves a different objective of the CTR Program: Biosecurity and Biosafety (BS&S), 

Threat Agent Detection and Response (TADR), and Cooperative Biological Research 

(CBR). 

The summer intern, located in Alexandria, VA on the TRSC program under DTRA, 

would be expected to support the BTRP mission by working closely with the Program 

Manager, Country Managers, and Threat Reduction Support Center (TRSC) team in 

specific topics and needs. The BTRP program is complex and involves many different 

aspects from technical support in Biosafety and Biosecurity, to contracting and project 

management for the various countries supported. Depending on the skills and interests of 

the intern, the specific position description would vary. 


Student must have an interest in international affairs, project management, and 

science/technology. Strong quantitative or writing skills desired; must be a team player 

and be able to take initiative. Language skills in Russian, Georgian, or other languages of

the former Soviet Union desired. Must be a US citizen, and eligible for clearance. 

Must be a current Tufts University student with a minimum 3.0 GPA. 


Student will gain an understanding of US Cooperative Threat Reduction Programs, 

particularly the Biological Threat Reduction Program, which operates in six countries of 

the former Soviet Union. Familiarity with especially dangerous pathogens and the efforts 

the USG makes to counter the threat of their deliberate or accidental use. The student will 

be expected to challenge their presentation and writing skills, including development of 

data gathering and analytical approaches. 



For this intern, the primary supervisor, Mr. Craig Wright, works out of the Threat 

Reduction Support Center. Mr. Wright is an engaged, committed supervisor who values 

the impact of interns, and has relied on their help for valuable projects in the past. His 

team regularly seeks out interns and other program-based staff, and has demonstrated 

success in working with these individuals on long or short-term bases. Mr. Marshall 

Martin will serve as the day-to-day mentor. Mr. Martin sponsored two students last 

summer and understands the caliber of the students, and the need to work closely with 

them to ensure that the summer is a success for all stakeholders. 





The BTRP program is complex and involves many different aspects from technical 

support in biosafety & biosecurity to contracting and project management. Depending on 

the skills and interests of the intern, the specific position description would vary. Listed 

below are three primary areas of support required; we would anticipate that the intern 

would work in only one of these three areas, as a “Program Assistant” regardless of the 

specific role. 

1. New Country Engagement 

BTRP has received funding to expand the program's mission beyond the currentlyengaged 

countries. Intern support would benefit the initial research efforts needed to 

successfully engage these new countries. An intern with strong research, analysis and 

writing skills is needed to support data gathering efforts (information about country 

infrastructure, budgets, government structure, geopolitical issues, governmental agencies 

and NGOs who are currently working in-country). A student with background and 

interest in political science, international affairs and/or public health would be best suited 

to this work.

2. Biosecurity and Biosafety 

Biosecurity and biosafety are core components of the BTRP program. Although we are 

now fully staffed in our Biosecurity and biosafety subject matter expert needs, a number 

of specific short-term project areas would benefit the TRSC team and BTRP Program. 

For this topic, we believe that a student with a policy/international affairs background 

would be effective. 

3. General Duties 

There are also broad programmatic areas that require assistance. For example, assistance 

in creating a list of known security products and assigning prices and values to them, and 

vetting them through export control to create a master list of known products and 

capabilities would be helpful. This would improve TRSC’s and the contractors’ ability to 

quickly and accurately estimate costs and lead times of products. In addition, basic data 

gathering and number crunching assistance for Project storyboards, and other contracting 

actions would be useful. Finally, basic support in knowledge management, filing, and 

archiving to create "project histories" and a "project library" would be helpful. 

Conclusion 

In summary, we believe that the roles/responsibilities outlined above will equate to an 

interesting project for the summer. 

Organization: The Constitution Project 

• Full Address: 1025 Vermont Avenue 

• Website: http://www.constitutionproject.org 

• Agency/Department Director: Virginia Sloan, President 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Scott Messinger, Chief 

Operating Officer 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): we are flexible. 10 consecutive 

weeks within the months in June, July, and/or August. 


hours for the summer): 35-40 hours a week. 



that the question appears before each of your responses.



The Constitution Project is an independent think tank in Washington, 

D.C. that promotes and defends constitutional safeguards. Through its Rule 

of Law and Criminal Justice programs, The Project promotes dialogue 

across ideological and partisan lines, bringing together prominent Americans 

from a variety of experiences to achieve long-term consensus. Working with 

these influential and unlikely allies, the Project conducts strategic public 

education campaigns and helps create the political majorities needed to 

transform this consensus into sound public policy. 


Basic familiarity with our system of government; interest in politics and the 

legislative process; working knowledge of Microsoft office suite; excellent 

research skills; good oral and written communication skills; enthusiasm, 

dependability; intellectual curiosity. 


Students will gain insight into differing perspectives on legal and 

constitutional issues and how consensus can be obtained from differing 

perspectives with regard to such issues. Students will also gain an 

understanding of how policy initiatives are publicized and promoted. An 

awareness of how different public policy and interest groups relate to and 

interact with one another will also be gained. A “hands on” appreciation of 

the legislative process will also be gained. 



Scott Messinger joined the Constitution Project as its Director of 

Management and Operations in June 2006 and became Chief Operating 

Officer in July 2007. Mr. Messinger received a B.A. in history from Williams 

College in 1987, a J.D. from Syracuse University College of Law in 1990, and 

a master’s degree in history from New York University in 1995. He has 

worked as a lawyer, a law professor, and most recently as an historian at the 

Federal Judicial Center in Washington, D.C. (from 2000 to 2006). 





The Summer Research Associate would assist with all aspect the work of the 

Constitution Project. He or she will assist in research, make phone calls and 

engage in email correspondence with our bi-partisan blue ribbon committee 

members. He or she will also work closely with the attorneys heading our

Rule of Law and Criminal Justice programs to review and proof 

publications. The Research Associate may be asked to conduct substantive 

research on certain issues (and will be trained to do so). She or he may also 

be requested to assist with the logistics and planning of Constitution Project 

events, including panel discussions and press briefings. It is also common to 

ask research associates to attend and monitor congressional committee 

hearings. 

Organization: NDN 

• Full Address: 729 15 th St. NW, Washington, DC 

• Website: www.ndn.org 

• Agency/Department Director: Simon Rosenberg 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Sam duPont, Assistant to 

the President 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): 6/1/09-8/31/09 


hours for the summer): 30 hours/week 


NDN is a progressive think tank and advocacy organization founded by Simon Rosenberg, a 1985 

graduate of Tufts University, and a member of the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and 

Public Service board of directors. 

NDN’s work is organized around a powerful idea – that for progressives to succeed in the 21st 

century as they did in the 20th, they will have to do three things: offer a new governing agenda 

that speaks to the challenges of our day; master the new media and technology tools that are 

changing the way we all communicate and advocate; and understand and speak to the radically 

new demographic make-up of today’s America. 

NDN’s staff, fellows and collaborators offer fresh and original thinking in these three main areas 

of focus: new governing agenda, new media and technology and new demography. 

The fellow will assist all office staff to help further the organization’s goals of promoting 

progressive politics. The student will be responsible for long and short term research projects, 

blogging, assisting with event planning and aiding with database management and entry, among 

other duties. Ideas on how to better market NDN and its efforts are always welcome, as new tools 

such as Facebook, MySpace, etc. continue to open up possibilities.

NDN has internships available for the students interested in a career in politics. NDN 

internships offer experience at a leading progressive think tank and advocacy group. The 

work environment is professional, fast-paced, and will give interns the ability to develop 

their political knowledge and skills. Successful applicants will be motivated, self starting, 

and familiar with NDN’s goals, objectives, and history. 

Interns will work in one of the following departmental or programmatic areas: 

Fundraising/Development 

The development intern will seek to build skills necessary to advance in 501(c)3 and 

501(c)4 fundraising by becoming familiar with the processes used to raise money. He or 

she will develop donor research, outreach and solicitation skills with regards to NDN’s 

institutional and individual contributors. The successful applicant will have strong 

organizational and research skills, the ability to work independently on assigned projects, 

and an interest in fundraising. 

Globalization Initiative/Green Project 

The Globalization Initiative/Green Project intern will assist with research and writing on 

energy and economic policy. A successful applicant will have an understanding of 

politics and economics, and have a demonstrated interest in economics or energy policy. 

An academic background in political science, economics, or a related field is preferred. 

Hispanic Programs 

The intern for NDN’s Hispanic Programs will assist in research and writing on Latin 

American politics and issues, as well as research and writing on issues of importance to 

the Hispanic community in the U.S. The candidate must be fully bilingual in English and 

Spanish. A background in politics, International Relations, and/or Latin American studies 

is preferred. 

Internet/Communications 

The Communications intern will assist with website management, and help manage 

NDN’s Facebook and Twitter accounts. This intern will also assist with press relations. 

Experience in web design is required and experience in political communications is 

preferred. 

Writer/Researcher 

This intern will conduct general research and writing for the organization. The work will 

cover broad issue areas including politics and foreign affairs. Excellent writing and 

research skills and a background in politics or related field are required. 

In addition to one of the tasks above, interns will be expected to assist staff in event 

management, promotion, and marketing as well as database management. Applicants will 

be chosen based on fit for the position and organization, prior experience and 

demonstrated interest, and ability to work as close to 30 hours a week as possible.

Organization: J Street 

• Full Address: 6432 Barnaby St, NW, Washington DC, 20015 

• Website: www.jstreet.org 

• Agency/Department Director: Jeremy Ben-Ami 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Chief-of-Staff 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June 8- August 14 


hours for the summer): 40hrs/week, roughly 9AM to 5PM each day 






The Fellow will be a member of the J Street 2009 Conference outreach and preprogramming 

team and will work to implement the conference’s Ambassador Program. 

S/he will work with J Street’s members and donors across the country to build 

community-based delegations, support pre-conference programming, and support 

outreach efforts in our attempt to bring over 1000 people to Washington for our 1 st annual 

conference. The position is located in the organization’s Washington office. 


The ideal candidate has: 

-Strong writing background, preferably in writing for communications; 

-Ability to communicate ideas and information effectively 

-Experience working on political campaigns or in the non-profit sector 

-Experience working with volunteers and/or activists 


-Organizing skills i.e. identifying and organizing potential volunteers/activists 

-Writing and Communications – learning how to write for online marketing; creating 

materials for activists 

-Program development – Assisting in development of pre-conference programming

-Outreach – Building skills in volunteer outreach, working with members etc… 

-Donor relations – Learning how to work with donors and build relationships 



J Street’s Chief of Staff is committed to working with interns and entry-level staff. As 

part of the position the CoS provides mentorship and guidance, and will hold a weekly 

meeting with the Fellow to ensure that everything is going well. The CoS will review 

and identify teachable moments from the prior week. Previous J Street interns have 

continued in paid positions – which is a testament to the depth of work and the nature of 

the relationships built between the CoS and interns. 





The Fellow will work on a variety of projects, but will focus specifically on outreach and 

programming in preparation for J Street’s 1 st Annual Conference: Driving Change, 

Securing Peace (October 25-28, 2009). As part of our preparing for the conference, we 

are organizing an Ambassador program around the country, identifying supporters who 

can organize in their own communities and create conference delegations, etc… These 

delegations will organize pre-conference programming to build energy and momentum in 

the lead-up to the conference. 

The fellow will work with the Chief of Staff and the communications and development 

teams to activate networks, provide support to Ambassadors, track the program, and 

more… 

This is J Street’s first such conference – as a result, this position may require Fellows to 

pitch-in in additional areas, such as planning conference workshops, or doing outreach to 

conference workshop presenters. 

In addition, J Street interns regularly find themselves on Capitol Hill and in meetings 

with Members of Congress and their staff, as well as policy experts and activists in the 

field. We see this as a great side benefit of interning at J Street. 

Potential Position Title: Outreach and Programming Assistant

Organization: Scientists and Engineers for America 

• Full Address: 1725 DeSales Street, N.W., 6 th Floor 


• Website: http://sharp.sefora.org 

• Agency/Department Director: Lesley Stone, Executive Director 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Meredith Blunda, 

Project Coordinator 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June 1, 2009-August 7, 2009 (can be 

flexible in starting and ending dates in May and August) 


hours for the summer): 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday 






Scientists and Engineers for America (SEA) is a non-profit, nonpartisan, 

educational organization that aims to bridge the gap between science and politics 

and facilitate evidence-based decision making at all levels of government. The 

office is located right in Washington, DC, near two main metro stops. It serves the 

entire population of the United States, through university chapters, candidate 

forums at many locations, members from across the country, and information on 

government representatives in all states. Through our online wiki, the SHARP 

(Science, Health, and Related Policy) Network, people can learn about and 

contribute to the science policy positions of their representatives and track their 

votes. SEA’s Campaign Education and Training program trains scientists from 

across the country to run for office, from local school board to Congress. 

University chapters allow students to engage in and influence science policy in 

their communities. Interns contribute to SEA’s mission by assisting in the 

planning and executing of our programs and events, contributing with policy

esearch on the science, health, and technology positions of members of Congress, 

and much more. 


-A background or interest in science and health policy issues 

-Strong communication skills, detail-oriented 

-Enthusiasm and creativity 


-Research and writing skills 

-Greater knowledge of science and health policy 

-A better understanding of how a non-profit organization functions 

-The intern can develop skills in areas they are interested in, such as fundraising 

or press 



The project manager is a recent graduate from Wake Forest University and 

would be very committed to host an intern over the summer. Her position 

requires her to be familiar with all aspects of the organization, and thus she could 

introduce an intern to all of these facets of a non-profit and allow the intern to 

pursue areas of interest. Since Meredith just graduated in May, she would be able 

to connect with college interns and work with them at their level. She is from the 

Washington DC area and would be able to share knowledge about the job and 

location quite easily. 





Scientists and Engineers for America (SEA) is a fast-paced non-profit 

organization that seeks to fill the gaps between science, policy, and politics. We

are looking for a creative, energetic, and detail-oriented intern to assist us with all 

of our programs. These projects will include: 

-SHARP Network: The intern will have the SHARP Network (our science 

policy wiki) as one of their top priorities. This includes adding information on the 

science and health policy positions for members of Congress, adding video from 

Congressional hearings, tracking legislation in Congress, and helping with our PR 

plan. 

-Student Chapters: SEA is working on increasing the number of student 

chapters it has across the country. Interns will assist with coming up with projects 

to start chapters at different schools and coordinating activities for chapters. 

-Fundraising: SEA is able to maintain its administrative and program costs 

through small donations from members, grants from large foundations, and 

fundraisers. Interns may assist with grant seeking or planning fundraising events. 

Because SEA is a small organization, there is space for interns to pursue 

areas that they are interested in or specialized in. Other areas could include 

website development, involvement in planning our Campaign Workshop, press 

and PR to promote the organization, and more. All of these programs directly 

support SEA’s mission by educating the public about science policy issues, 

educating members of the scientific community about the political process and 

ways in which they can effectively participate in elections, influencing elected 

officials, and ultimately holding politicians accountable through the dissemination 

of accurate and timely information about the positions they take on science issues. 

Position title: Project Assistant 

Organization: 

The District of Columbia Public Schools 

• Full Address: 825 North Capitol Street, NE 9 th Floor Washington DC 

20036 

• Website: www.k12.dc.us

• Agency/Department Director: Chancellor Michelle A Rhee 

• Name and Title of the Direct Supervisor/Project Mentor: Susan Cheng, Director 

of Talent Management and Organizational Development 

• Proposed Dates of Fellowship (8-10 weeks): June 8- Aug 22 


hours for the summer): 40 hours a week. 






Depending on the Fellow’s area of interest, the Fellow might be placed in the following 

areas: 

Associates receive substantive and rich projects and will be assigned to work on one of 

the following project areas during the academic year: 

(1) Communications and Community Relations 

• Develop a systems-operations workflow for the Office of the Chancellor. 

• Create a stakeholder database for DC-area partners that includes parents, teachers, 

principals, and public-private sponsors. 

• Perform a literature review of the chancellor’s press events and create media log. 

• Revamp the DCPS website and portal to engage more community residents. 

• Coordinate school visit and teacher focus group strategy for year 1 – includes 

preparing materials and finding participants. 

(2) Data Accountability and Assessment 

• Collect and synthesize best practices of data use currently being implemented by 

DCPS schools. 

• Parent and student surveys administration, collection and analysis. 

• Collect and synthesizing best practices nationally of No Child Left Behind high 

stakes testing administration by districts across the nation. 

• Review student transcript data and assess how DCPS can better prepare students 

for graduation. 

(3) Critical Response Coordination 

• Assist critical response team in addressing constituent issues around facilities, 

special education, school security, parent-teacher-principal relations.

• Read and draft correspondence on behalf of the chancellor. 

• Monitor, track, analyze, and report on major trends in stakeholder concerns. 

(4) Human Resources and Human Capital Development 

• Research best practices across nation in recruitment and retention of talented 

teachers, principals, and central office staff. 

• Conduct survey work and collect data. 

• Analyze compensation and rewards systems for employees. 

• Assist with central office reform legislation and roll-out. 

• Assist the Deputy Chancellor for Human Capital and External Partnerships on 

special projects. 

• Research in labor management negotiations and labor union contracts. 

• Organizational charts and leadership interviews. 

• Central Office professional development and programming. 

(5) Private-Public Partnerships 

• Organize and coordinate external partnership relations. 

• Event coordination and planning for DCPS teachers, principals, and central office 

staff. 

• Work with DCPS central and school staff to collect data on program offerings and 

partnerships in DCPS schools. 

• Create a map (or matrix) of existing programs and partnerships. 

• Analyze opportunities for leveraging programs and partnerships across multiple 

schools and DCPS as a whole to drive student success. 

(6) Office of Global Initiatives 

• Assist the Director in identifying and documenting global education programs, 

opportunities, and resources available to DCPS students, teachers, and 

administrators. 

• Assist in disseminating this information to schools and school communities. 

• Increase participation of DCPS students and educators, in K-12 schools across the 

city, in high quality, global education activities. 

• Work with Embassies in DC to bolster international partnerships with DCPS. 

(7) Teaching and Learning 

• Restructure the Office of Bilingual Education. 

• Coordinate Saturday school. 

• Launch the High School Cabinet. 

• Engage in special projects (Geoplunge, Hispanic Forum, etc). 

(8) Schools Transformation and Operations 

• Assist with the Transformation Office strategy. 

• Assist with overseeing textbook delivery, school openings, school closings, etc. 

• Work with principals, teachers on school reform teams. 

• Assist with restructuring schools during the transformation process.

(9) DCPS High School Tutoring-Mentoring Program 

• Assist with the expansion of the pilot program to all high schools 

• Manage program, including volunteer intake, connecting with Afterschool 

Coordinators and interacting with the school scheduling system. 

(10) Office of the General Counsel 

• Legal projects include research and policy work around: 

• The challenges presented in the Mayor’s take-over of the public schools and 

elimination of the independent school board 

• The impact of charter (public and non-public) schools on public education (funding 

and operations) 

• Union rights versus personal accountability 

• The pros and cons of a mandatory school uniform policy and whether such a policy 

would be lawful under the DC Human Rights Act 

• The appropriate role of the school in addressing issues relating to sexuality and 

family values 

• Legal obligation of the public schools to address bullying and assaultive behavior 

• The legal and programmatic aspects of the criminal background/screening policy 

• HIPAA compliance at school based clinics 

• The release of FERPA covered information/documents under subpoena 

• National standards on eligibility for participation in school athletic team sports 


No specific skills needed (except for legal projects) other than a strong work 

ethic, motivation, ability to execute, passion for public education mission. 


Attention to detail, multi-tasking, and ability to handle pressure. The Fellow will 

also develop skills in communications with constituents with principals, teachers, 

parents and community members. 



Susan Cheng is the Director of the Urban Education Leaders Internship Program. 

She is committed to the development of the fellow and the quality of the program. 





The description relates to the placement of the Fellow. We have several project 

descriptions that I will attach to this application for consideration.

The fellow would assume the tile “Associate.” 

Sample Projects (Not a complete list): 

UELIP 

UELIP Associate Project Form 

Supervisor & Office: Jeff Ross – Critical Response Team 

Project Name: Junior Critical Response Team Member 

Project Responsibilities: Three Bullets 

1. Receive assigned “cases” of issues and concerns from DCPS stakeholders (parents, 

teachers, outside community members, etc.). Aggressively work to resolve issues within 

the guidelines of the Mayor’s Customer Service Standards (24 hour response time) and 

Critical Response Team goals (cases closed within 5 days). 

2. Helping to maintain the Critical Response Team’s tracking system of constituent 

concerns (Intranet Quorum) 

3. Draft correspondence on behalf of the Office of the Chancellor; assist the Critical 

Response Team in keeping other DCPS departments accountable for Mayor Fenty’s 

Customer Service standards 

What will an Associate get from working on this project? 

• Experience operating in a time-sensitive professional environment, in-taking and 

resolving real issues from stakeholders 

• Broad knowledge of the interaction of the various departments making up a large 

public school system 

• Opportunity to interact with high level DCPS employees pertaining to stakeholder 

issues 

My Ideal Intern should possess the following attributes: 

• Desire to interact (via phone, email, and in person) directly with DCPS stakeholders 

• Excellent customer service and writing skills to represent DCPS and the Chancellor’s 

Office to internal and external constituents

• Persistence in following up on assigned cases 

• Desire to work on a wide variety of issues impacting DCPS and obtain a broad view 

of the various departments making up a large public school system 

• Willingness and enthusiasm to work in a team environment 


UELIP 

Supervisor & Office: Anthony deGuzman & Transformation Management Office 

Project Name: Operations Reform 


1. Over-arching Theme - Analyze current DCPS operations that are in need of overhaul 

and pinpoint those that require overhaul in order to achieve our 5 year goals. Once this 

vetting process is complete, action plans will be developed for each reform. 

2. Facilities Modernizations – Work with the Director of Operations Reform and OPEFM 

to craft and implement DCPS multi-billion dollar facilities modernization plan. 

3. Asset Management – Work with the Director of Operations Reform to assess current 

strengths and weaknesses in DCPS assest/inventory management systems and craft 

strategies and concrete implementation plans to update and reform systems. 


Intern(s) will have the opportunity to lead portions of the projects, test analytical skills 

and craft implementation plans that will be enacted by DCPS personnel/departments. 

They will have an indirect impact on all the children within the district by revamping 

overarching systems. 


• Strong analytical skills 

• Tolerance for working in and fixing broken systems 

• Ability to research other school districts and apply lessons to DCPS 

• Knowledge of how schools works (preferred) 

• Knowledge of budgets (preferred) 

• Business/Operations background (preferred)

UELIP 


Supervisor & Office: Naomi Watson Office of Data and Accountability 

Project Name: Intro to Data and Accountability 


1. Manage multiple projects as they come up can include but not limited to: 

2. Coordinate and streamline data request process 

3. Assist in updating and maintaining school profiles 


A broad introduction to how policy decisions are made. A better understanding of how 

systems function in a turn-around environment. 


• Attention to detail, strong org skills 

• Under grad interested in ed policy 

• Positive attitude 

• Strong communication skills 

• Able to adapt to change and chaotic environments 


FALL INTERNS Sept-December 2008 

Supervisor & Office: Chad Ferguson, Office of Youth Engagement 

UELIP

Potential Projects: 

1. Truancy reduction – work with Kate on FIA initiative, MPD pickups, outreach from 

schools 

2. Mediation programs in schools – work with Alexandra on implementing existing 

programs (with outside organizations), research effective programs to possibly 

implement, help respond to immediate school needs 

3. Health & Wellness – work with Director of H&W to assist in the development and 

vetting of a district-wide Health & Wellness plan 

4. School support (Youth Engagement/Alternative schools and programs) – various 

projects in developing programs to address needs of disengaged middle school and high 

school students; assist Cluster 6 support staff in work with principals, school staff, 

students, and families. 


• Policy development, analysis, and implementation 

• Potential wide range of topics/issues affecting urban school districts 

• Opportunity to work at both macro- and micro-levels (district level perspective, as 

well as school-level perspective) 

• Wide latitude to develop specific outcomes and products 

• Opportunity to interact with all types of school “constituents” as well as other city 

agencies 

• Depending on experience and ability, opportunity to take on significant responsibility 

for implementing policy 


• Identify and articulate areas of interest, goals for personal/professional growth 

• Work independently; focus on outcomes, develop process and check in regularly with 

manager 

• Interact in a professional manner with a wide variety of people 

• Handle sensitive information discretely 

• Move fluidly between macro- and micro-type thinking and action (i.e. be able to see 

and think about the “big picture” and also be able to attend to detail)

Organization Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

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