Overview
Research & Policy Intern Jobs in Washington, DC at Yorktown Institute
Title: Research & Policy Intern
Company: Yorktown Institute
Location: Washington, DC
About the Yorktown Institute:
Founded in 2022, the Yorktown Institute is a Washington, D.C.-based national security think tank at
the forefront of America's strategic response to Eurasian great power competition. The Institute
studies and advocates a grand strategy rooted in constitutional governance, a competitive military-
industrial base, and robust international alliances. Our work centers on the geopolitical struggle for
supremacy over the world's supercontinent — from the Atlantic to the Pacific — and the naval and military power that must underpin American leadership in the 21st century. Through expert
commentary, in-depth research, coalition-building, and a commitment to next-generation leadership,
the Yorktown Institute shapes the thinking of decision-makers and national security professionals at
all levels of government.
Position Overview:
The Yorktown Institute is seeking motivated and intellectually curious undergraduate students,
graduate students, and recent graduates for its semester internship program. Interns play an integral
role in advancing the Institute's research agenda and day-to-day operations. Working directly
alongside the President and Fellows, interns gain hands-on experience in policy research, writing,
and the operational workings of a leading national security think tank. This is an unpaid position; in
lieu of compensation, the Institute offers substantive mentorship and career guidance from senior
national security and foreign policy professionals.
Position Details:
Location: Washington, D.C. (in-person required)
Hours: Minimum 20 hours per week
Terms: Positions are open for both the Fall and Spring semesters or the entire academic year
Compensation: Unpaid; mentorship and professional development provided
Eligibility: Current undergraduate or graduate students, and recent graduates
Core Responsibilities:
- Support the research work of the President and Fellows on issues spanning U.S. foreign policy, defense, national security, and Eurasian geopolitics
- Research, write, and edit policy pieces, essays, and analytical reports for internal and external audiences
- Draft memos, policy briefs, and background materials to support the Institute's publications and programs
- Assist with day-to-day operations and administrative support for the President of the Institute
- Help organize public events and conferences; manage media inquiries and meeting requests
- Perform general administrative duties and provide operational support as needed
Qualifications & Requirements:
The following qualifications are required of all applicants:
- Demonstrated and substantive interest in national security, U.S. foreign policy, defense affairs, and/or Eurasian geopolitics
- Exceptional research, writing, and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and well-argued prose
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; professional and collegial manner
- Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite and standard research tools
- Strong academic record from an accredited college or university
The following qualifications are preferred but not required:
- Interest in or prior experience with U.S. military service, ROTC, or military affairs
- Familiarity with Washington, D.C.'s policy and think tank community
- Experience with social media management or digital communications
What You Will Gain:
- Direct mentorship from senior national security scholars, former government officials, and military professionals
- Substantive research and writing experience on issues at the forefront of American grand strategy
- Exposure to Washington's national security community through events, conferences, and briefings
- Career guidance and professional networking opportunities within the defense and foreign policy
fields
The Yorktown Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our commitment to American national security and constitutional governance.
