Poverty Research Fellows
The Poverty Research Fellows (PRF) program combines research, experiential learning, coursework, and community to give students both a deep understanding of poverty and the practical skills to address it through evidence. That foundation carries into whatever comes next. PRF alumni have gone on to doctoral programs, careers in public policy, nonprofit leadership, consulting, and beyond.
There is no single path through Poverty Research Fellows. Some students begin with a summer internship, while others first engage through courses or the Poverty Research Community. Throughout the academic year, all PRFs come together through workshops, guest lectures, and other programming. Students can participate in one opportunity or several, creating an experience that reflects their interests and goals.
Explore the opportunities below.
Funded Internships
Gain hands-on experience working alongside Notre Dame experts conducting research and advancing evidence-based solutions to poverty. Visit the Funded Internships page to learn more.
Academic Opportunities
Build rigorous research skills through specialized coursework and immersive learning experiences. PRF currently offers concentrations in Economics and Sociology, and the courses are open to students of all majors. Visit the Academic Opportunities page to learn more.
Poverty Research Community
Join a growing community of students interested in and committed to anti-poverty work. Students in the Poverty Research Community commit to attending at least three events each semester. Visit the Poverty Research Community page to learn more.
PRF Video by Juliana Molina Giha, Olivia Antolak, and Zach Zieleniewski