IISS–Americas Research Internship on Technology, Trade and Geopolitics

Facts. Analysis. Influence.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) is a defence and security think tank that has a deep understanding of regional geopolitics and geo-economics in a global context. Its international researchers provide best-in-class, independent and impartial analysis and offer insights on strategic challenges and priorities to governments and the private sector. It is expert at bringing together national leaders and senior policymakers in foreign policy, defence and security; promoting dialogue; and facilitating effective and influential bilateral and multilateral consultations.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies – Americas is seeking one student intern to work up to 20 hours per week to support a research program on technology, trade and geopolitics. The start and end dates are flexible with a preference for those available from late August to mid-December.

The successful applicant will gain direct exposure to the research, publications and management of a leading international think tank. We are looking for an intern with a strong academic background focused on international relations or national-security studies, ideally with an interest in emerging technologies and international trade.

• Conducting research and writing on technical issues, policy developments and diplomacy regarding technology and trade;
• Performing operational tasks to assist in convening virtual and in-person events;
• Performing outreach to both government and non-government entities;
• Supporting IISS–Americas researchers with ad-hoc research, data-collection, writing, editing and fundraising projects;
• Conducting stakeholder mapping, preparing background materials and drafting talking points for IISS advisory briefings.

Successful candidates will:

• Have good substantive knowledge of current trends in international security, particularly emerging technologies relevant to national security and/or international trade;
• Be able to write quickly and clearly;
• Be a proactive self-starter and able to work in a small team environment;
• Be proficient in Microsoft Excel;
• Be eligible to work in the United States. The IISS–Americas regrets that it cannot assist with procuring visas or entry permits. Please indicate your work eligibility in your application.

Candidates pursuing a master’s degree are preferred, but we will consider exceptional undergraduates.

This is an in-person internship paid at $18/hr for up to 20 hours per week. Applicants must reside in the DC metro area at the time of the internship.

Interested candidates can proceed by pressing the blue ‘apply now’ button and follow the steps to submit only two documents:

• A CV
• A one-page cover letter combined with a writing sample (up to 2,500 words in length)

The writing sample can be a stand-alone work or an excerpt focusing on any topic. When uploading your documents, please merge the cover letter and writing sample to create a single PDF while submitting the resume as a stand-alone PDF.

The deadline for the application is

Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.