Our 2025 program application is now live! Click here to apply. The deadline is February 1, 2025 at 11:59 PM.
Overview
OpenDP interns may be undergraduate, post-bacc, or graduate students. We prefer that students join full time and in person for our full 10-week program, but there are also options for part-time, remote, and/or term-time work. There are a limited number of paid internship positions, so students who can apply for their own summer research funding are encouraged to do so and indicate it in their application. If you are an undergraduate student, please check your eligibility to apply for funding through Harvard’s REU program.
Applicants will also be considered for internships in the broader Privacy Tools Project. Some past OpenDP internships have led to published research papers or senior theses; interns who are interested in a research-oriented internships should indicate that on their application, and we will try to develop a project with a research component.
If you are an engineer or researcher looking for a part-time summer opportunity to work with OpenDP, our Visiting Fellows program may be a good fit for you. You can learn more here.
OpenDP is dedicated to building a diverse community that is welcoming for everyone, regardless of disability, gender identity and expression, physical appearance, race, religion, or sexual orientation. In particular, we encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups.
Key Dates
- February 1: Deadline for all applications
- February 22: Decisions sent out to all applicants
- June 2: Program begins
- August 8: Program ends
2025 Project Areas
- Building and integrating software (e.g. Linear Regression; Python DP app; testing; documentation)
- Community building and outreach
- Usability and UX
- Writing math proofs
- DP research
- Privacy, ethics, policy and responsible use
FAQ
What are the dates of the program?
The program will last ten weeks from June 2 to August 8.
Is this a paid opportunity?
Yes. We have a limited amount of funding, so if you have access to an additional funding source (including Harvard’s REU program) please indicate it on your application.
How do I know if I am eligible for REU funding?
The REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) program is open to current undergraduates who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States. You can find more information about the REU program here.
Do you provide visa assistance for international students?
Yes, we can accept international students.
How do my references upload their letters? Can I check the status of my recommendations?
Your references can email their letters directly to info@opendp.org. We will notify you when we have received two letters of reference. Your application will not be considered complete until we have received two letters for you.
What projects have previous interns worked on?
Our interns work on a variety of projects. You can hear from past interns in our 2024 recap and blog posts from 2023.
How else can I get involved with OpenDP?
We welcome everyone into the OpenDP community! Here are some ways you can engage with us:
- Use our tools
- Join our Slack
- Sign up for our mailing list
- Follow us on Github