Whether research interns get paid depends on several factors, including the organization, location, and type of research. Here are some quick answers on research intern pay:
Paid vs Unpaid Research Internships
Many research internships, especially those with universities and government agencies, are unpaid. However, some organizations do offer paid research internships, typically in the private sector or with larger research institutions.
Stipends for Research Interns
Some research internships provide a stipend, which is a fixed amount paid on a regular basis. Stipends help offset living expenses but are not considered a wage.
Hourly Wages for Research Interns
Paid research interns may receive an hourly wage, similar to a part-time job. Wages vary based on factors like education level and geographic location.
Location and Field Matters
Large, well-funded research organizations in major metropolitan areas are more likely to offer paid research internships. Certain fields, like biotech and engineering, tend to pay more than social sciences and humanities.
Qualifications Impact Pay
Students who have already completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree are more likely to receive payment compared to underclassmen interns. Relevant coursework and lab skills also make applicants more competitive for paid positions.
Grants and Scholarships
Some undergrads and grad students secure outside funding through university grants and scholarships to help fund unpaid research internships. This allows them to gain experience while offsetting costs.
Conversion to Full-Time Roles
Paid research internships may lead to full-time job offers after graduation. Even unpaid roles can help interns get a foot in the door for future paid positions.
Negotiating Pay
If an unpaid internship is otherwise ideal, interns may try negotiating a stipend to cover basic expenses. Adding value through strong qualifications improves negotiating leverage.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Unpaid internships offer valuable research experience and mentoring for undergrads exploring a field of interest. However, paid roles allow interns to earn income while avoiding the costs of an unpaid internship. Each intern must weigh options carefully.
The Great Research Internship Pay Debate
The question of whether research interns should be paid remains controversial. Valid arguments exist on both sides of the issue. Here we dive deeper into the debate.
Arguments Supporting Unpaid Research Internships
Here are some common arguments in favor of unpaid research internships:
- Provide training and mentoring for those new to research
- Give students hands-on experience not available in classrooms
- Expose interns to potential careers and research topics
- May offer academic credit as an alternative form of compensation
- Help students build skills, knowledge, credentials, and professional connections
- Offer flexible arrangements for students still taking classes
- Valuable positions may be limited or unavailable if payment is required
- Interns understand and accept in advance that many roles are unpaid
Arguments Supporting Paid Research Internships
Here are some common arguments in favor of paid research internships:
- Unpaid roles favor students who can afford to work for no pay
- Students have living costs to cover like housing, food, and transportation
- Paid positions allow lower-income applicants to gain valuable research experience
- Interns conduct productive work that provides value to the organization
- Pay reflects the worth of interns’ contributions and attracts more competitive applicants
- Unpaid interns may sacrifice paid jobs or take on debt, creating financial hardship
Ethical Concerns Around Unpaid Internships
Critics argue that unpaid research internships are unethical because:
- Lack of pay discriminates against those unable to work for free
- Interns displace paid employees doing necessary work
- Employers exploit intern labor without compensation
- Unpaid roles violate minimum wage laws in some jurisdictions
- Interns lack leverage to push back against poor working conditions
Reforms Around Pay for Interns
In response to ethical concerns, some organizations have implemented reforms such as:
- Providing modest stipends to help offset living expenses
- Covering travel, parking, and meal costs for interns
- Setting clear limits on working hours for unpaid interns
- Paying interns minimum wage for hours worked over a set threshold
- Offering unpaid interns the ability to obtain academic credit
- Converting high-performing interns to paid roles for a second summer
Research on Research Intern Pay
Several studies provide data on how common paid vs. unpaid research internships are in different fields and what factors impact pay. Here is a summary of findings:
Pay Rate by Academic Field
Field | % Paid |
---|---|
Engineering | 63% |
Sciences | 43% |
Business | 33% |
Social Sciences | 26% |
Arts & Humanities | 22% |
Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers (2016)
Key takeaway: Students in technical fields like engineering are most likely to land paid research internships.
Average Weekly Pay by Degree Level
Degree Level | Average Weekly Pay |
---|---|
Bachelor’s | $419 |
Master’s | $662 |
Doctoral | $731 |
Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers (2020)
Key takeaway: As education level increases, so does average weekly pay for research interns.
% Paid by Type of Organization
Organization Type | % Paid |
---|---|
Private Company | 63% |
Government | 59% |
Non-Profit | 36% |
University | 22% |
Source: Intern Bridge (2017)
Key takeaway: Private companies pay the highest percentage of their research interns.
Getting a Paid Research Internship
Here are some tips to boost your chances of securing a paid research internship:
Focus on Technical Fields
Math, science, engineering and IT roles tend to offer the highest rates of paid research positions. Consider focusing your internship search in these areas.
Look Beyond Academia
Expand your search to include research hospitals, government labs, biotech firms and R&D think tanks. These types of organizations frequently pay interns.
Highlight Relevant Coursework
Quantitative analysis, statistics, lab methods and other specialized skills make you more competitive for paid roles. Include relevant classes on your resume.
Get Advanced Degrees
Having a master’s or PhD dramatically improves your odds of getting paid. If unpaid now, consider pursuing higher education to access stipends and wages later.
Apply Early and Widely
Paid spots are competitive, so cast a wide net and apply early. The best opportunities go quickly.
Ask About Pay Up Front
Don’t waste time applying if unable to work for free. Politely ask recruiters about stipends, wages, or grants available.
Consider Remote Opportunities
Virtual internships open up more paid opportunities at organizations you can work for remotely.
Network and Get Referrals
Leverage personal and professional contacts to find unposted paid roles. Referrals get a foot in the door.
Negotiate Stipends If Needed
If an unpaid role is perfect otherwise, respectfully negotiate a stipend to offset basic living expenses.
Conclusion
The research intern’s dilemma over pay is complex. While paid positions are ideal, unpaid roles offer valuable experience too. Students should carefully weigh options, reduce costs where possible, and focus on quality programs aligned with long-term goals. With strategic choices, research interns can maximize learning while minimizing financial burdens.