Intern - Middle East Program (Spring 2026)

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision makers concerned with global security and prosperity. Over the years, it has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of some 250 employees, including more than 120 analysts working to address the changing dynamics of international security across the globe.

The CSIS Middle East program is currently seeking candidates for a full-time, paid Spring 2026 internship running from January through mid-May. CSIS interns mostly work downtown at our office in DC, but some flexibility is offered to work remotely part of the time. All candidates must be legally eligible to work in the United States.

The hired candidates will be paid hourly, commensurate with experience ($18.00/hour for current undergraduate hires, $19.00/hour for hires with a bachelor's degree, and $20.00/hour for hires with a master's degree).

Essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:

* Compiling research briefs and literature reviews for fellows and research staff;

* Observing or listening to virtual or in-person events and writing event summaries;

* Pitching and researching content for the Middle East Program's newsletter;

* Supporting maintenance of the program's website and contact database;

* Completing other minor administrative tasks.

* Completion or near completion of a bachelor's degree or higher in Middle East studies, international affairs, political science, or a related field;

* Minimum of a 3.5 GPA on a U.S. scale or equivalent;

* Strong demonstrated interest in and knowledge of the Middle East;

* Outstanding written, research and oral communication skills;

* Zest for challenging assignments that demand creativity;

* Working knowledge of Arabic and/or Persian strongly preferred with an emphasis on reading and listening skills.

* Candidates with demonstrated skills in data analysis and visualization, knowledge of AI, and experience working on the Gulf are highly encouraged to apply.

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee working in an office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, a writing sample of up to five double-spaced pages, and all college transcripts at https://careers.csis.org/. Writing samples should demonstrate the ability to research and write policy-relevant work on the region. Two letters of recommendation should also be sent to middleeaststudies@csis.org.