The WVU Center for Resilient Communities invites applications from currently enrolled undergraduate students at West Virginia University for the position of Resilient Communities Research Intern for Spring 2026. This is a paid hourly appointment and we anticipate recruiting up to 10 interns. First-generation college students and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in social action or efforts to promote community wellbeing or social, economic and environmental justice in Appalachia and the South is also highly desired.
The WVU Center for Resilient Communities facilitates community engaged research and education programs in West Virginia, the greater Appalachian region and across the world. Applicants can learn more about the CRC here . Our aim is to foster a positive spirit, support collective inquiry, and encourage people to look to themselves, rather than outside experts to promote community well-being and sustainable regional development.
Undergraduate interns employed in the CRC work a minimum of 8 hours and maximum of 10 hour per week. The Resilient Communities Research Interns will join a warm community and transdisciplinary team made up of full-time staff, faculty affiliates, grassroots partners, and talented MA and PhD students. Orientation and training in CRC principles, practices, and approaches will be required after onboarding. Some travel may also be required.
The CRC is currently advancing research project partnerships in the following areas:
- Youth Leadership Development
- Livelihoods and Grassroots Economic Development
- Nutrition Futures and Food Policy
- Farm to School and Food System Education
- Climate and Environmental Hazard Preparedness
Applicants should Complete the Application Form and Upload a Resume by October
14th, 2025 for full consideration. After initial screening, finalists for the position
will be asked to interview in person.
In order to be successful in this position, the ideal candidate will:
- Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and cooperation
- Seek understanding of the historic and present challenges of advancing equitable, sustainable development and social justice in the Appalachian region and the South
- Seek understanding of the CRC’s decade of work in West Virginia and abroad and its principles for research, education and action
- Support CRC staff, graduate researchers and student interns staff in meeting standards of excellence in research
- Report on the progress in the research plan on a weekly basis
- Participate actively in staff orientation, meetings, retreats and training
Qualifications
- Enrollment in a Bachelor’s degree at West Virginia University;
Experience desired in the following areas:
- Community-engaged research
- Analytical Writing
- Public presentations and posters
- ARC GIS Online
- Experience collaborating in teams on research or other projects