At the Web3 Foundation, we are at the forefront of groundbreaking research in decentralized systems. As a key contributor to the Polkadot protocol—one of the largest DAOs in the world—we are dedicated to advancing the frontiers of blockchain innovation. We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Scientist Intern to join our research team and tackle some of the most critical challenges in Polkadot’s governance. Polkadot governance allows users to have a direct impact on Polkadot such as voting on decisions on future changes to token economics among many other decisions. This role offers an opportunity to shape the future of distributed technologies through research driven by rigorous scientific evidence.

About the Role

As a Research Scientist Intern, you will undertake rigorous academic research on governance topics related to Polkadot, utilizing both theoretical frameworks and applied methodologies. In close collaboration with other team members, in particular our economics expert, your contributions will enhance the understanding of and provide solutions to real-world challenges in decentralized governance. This role offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, enabling us to derive actionable insights and propose innovative solutions for impactful, real-world outcomes.

We are a lean team with a flat organisation. You will work closely with team members in Zug and remote locations, as well as with diverse service suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Identify and address opportunities to enhance decentralized governance mechanisms.
• Translate academic insights into practical, real-world applications.
• Conduct research on decentralized governance, focusing on Polkadot, leveraging expertise in voting theory and public choice.
• Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, combining theoretical, experimental, and empirical methodologies.
• Contribute to optimizing the Polkadot protocol by bridging research with implementation.
• Develop research papers for submission to leading academic outlets.

Requirements

• PhD (or currently pursuing a PhD) in Public Economics, Public Choice, Political Science, or a related field.
• Strong theoretical foundation and analytical skills, with a passion for academic research.
• Demonstrated interest in governance topics and decentralized decision-making processes.
• Ability to conduct independent research and translate theoretical concepts into practical applications.
• Native-level written and spoken English.

A Plus

• Deep knowledge in Blockchain technologies, particularly with the Polkadot ecosystem.
• Previous academic or applied work in decentralized decision making frameworks.
• Previous experience in governance, on-chain or off-chain.

Benefits

• An exciting opportunity to join a driven team where research is applied and can have a large real-world impact.
• Hands-on experience in a rapidly evolving industry at the intersection of research and blockchain governance.
• Competitive salary.
• Opportunities for working in the industry and still being able to publish work in academia.
• Flexible work environment with opportunities for remote collaboration.
• Company & team retreats at unique locations around Europe.
• Opportunity to be part of an interdisciplinary team working on cutting-edge technologies.
• Upon successful completion there is the opportunity for employment.

• Web3 Foundation

• Polkadot