People Analytics Intern (Research & Advanced Modeling)

About Us:

Proofpoint is a global leader in human- and agent-centric cybersecurity. We protect how people, data, and AI agents connect across email, cloud, and collaboration tools. Over 80 of the Fortune 100, 10,000 large enterprises, and millions of smaller organizations trust Proofpoint to stop threats, prevent data loss, and build resilience across their people and AI workflows. Our mission is simple: safeguard the digital world and empower people to work securely and confidently. Join us in our pursuit to defend data and protect people.

How We Work:

At Proofpoint you’ll be part of a global team that breaks barriers to redefine cybersecurity guided by our BRAVE core values: 

Bold in how we dream and innovate

Responsive to feedback, challenges and opportunities

Accountable for results and best in class outcomes

Visionary in future focused problem-solving

Exceptional in execution and impact

About the Role 

We are seeking a highly analytical and intellectually curious People Analytics Intern to join our People Analytics team for a 2-month research-focused internship. 

This internship is designed for a student interested in applying advanced statistical methods to real-world workforce challenges. The intern will design and execute a research study using company data and present executive-ready insights to senior HR leadership. 

What You’ll Do 

The intern will lead an end-to-end research project in at least one of the following areas: 

• Distributed team dynamics and employee outcomes 

• Profiles of top-performing hires and predictive success signals 

• Manager effectiveness and its impact on employee experience 

• Career Path Velocity Analysis 

Responsibilities include: 

• Refining a research question in partnership with the People Analytics team 

• Cleaning and preparing HR and survey datasets 

• Applying advanced statistical modeling techniques (e.g., regression, survival analysis, machine learning, segmentation analysis) 

• Interpreting results for non-technical stakeholders 

• Developing executive-ready presentations with actionable recommendations 

What We’re Looking For 

• Students pursuing degrees in Statistics, Economics, Data Science, Organizational Psychology, or related field 

• Strong proficiency in R, Python, or similar statistical tools 

• Experience with regression modeling, classification models, or experimental design 

• Ability to translate complex analyses into business insights 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills 

• Interest in workforce strategy and organizational research 

Preferred: 

• Experience working with survey data 

• Familiarity with causal inference methods 

• Prior HR or organizational research experience 

What You’ll Gain 

• End-to-end ownership of a high-impact research study 

• Exposure to exe