Organization: Columbia Human Rights Initiative Asylum Clinic (CHRIA)
Institution: Columbia University – Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
Position Type: Unpaid Research Internship
Commitment: Minimum 4 hours per week for one year
Application Deadline: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM
About the Internship
Join the Columbia Human Rights Initiative Asylum Clinic (CHRIA) for an open research internship on the Asylum Outcomes Project.
CHRIA is a student-and-faculty organization dedicated to a human-rights-centered approach to medicine. Its student-run Asylum Clinic provides pro bono medical evaluations to people seeking asylum in the United States.
As an intern, you will help study asylum application outcomes in relation to case content and the medical evaluations submitted with applications. This research will help the clinic better understand how medical documentation relates to asylum decisions and how future evaluations can best support the individuals CHRIA serves.
What You’ll Gain
- Training and hands-on experience in research methods
- Opportunities for co-authorship on upcoming publications
- Close mentorship from the research team
- Participation in weekly lab meetings
- Monthly in-person special events, including medical school tours, volunteering advice, gap-year panels, and other activities based on your interests
Eligibility Requirements
This opportunity is open to undergraduate, graduate, and medical students with an interest in human rights or medical research.
No prior research experience is required.
Time Commitment and Schedule
- Weekly commitment: At least 4 hours per week for one year
- Weekly lab meeting: Tuesdays at 5:00 PM via Zoom, approximately 1 hour
- Weekly research deliverables: An additional 2–3 hours
- In-person events: Approximately once per month
- Onboarding begins: December 1, 2026
How to Apply
Complete the online application form using the link below:
Apply for the Research Internship
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, and must include all required materials to be considered.
Questions?
For questions about the internship or application process, contact the CHRIA research coordinators:
- Lina Yamahara: ly2473@columbia.edu
- Anabel Moore: agm2246@cumc.columbia.edu
