China Research Fall 2026 Internship

Foundation for Defense of Democracies; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 15,000 - 25,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Stipend

Academic credit assistance

Job summary

EmergencyMD is offering a part or full-time internship in their China Research Program. Interns will work with experienced staff to analyze Chinese perspectives on military and economic competition.

This role requires a minimum commitment of 22 hours per week, with opportunities for professional development in an engaging environment. Candidates should have a strong academic background and proven research skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3.2 GPA is required.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs is needed.
• Ability to conduct research in Mandarin is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in analyzing military, economic, and diplomatic competition data.
• Conduct literature reviews and collect primary source data.
• Collaborate closely with FDD researchers.

Skills

Empirical research experience

Strong writing capabilities

Data analysis expertise

Microsoft Office programs

Basic Excel skills

Education

Relevant coursework in International Relations, Security Studies, or related field

Job description

Internship Opportunities

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a Washington, DC-based nonpartisan 501(c)(3) research institute focusing on national security and foreign policy. FDD conducts in-depth research, produces accurate and timely analyses, identifies illicit activities, and provides policy options – all with the aim of strengthening U.S. national security and reducing or eliminating threats posed by adversaries and enemies of the United States and other free nations. FDD does not accept donations from any foreign governments.

About FDD's Internship Program

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies offers a variety of internship opportunities designed to provide meaningful professional development. Interns participate in a twice‑monthly speaker series featuring senior staff members in a small‑group setting and are encouraged to strengthen their academic and analytical skills through close collaboration with FDD scholars and experts. The organization offers stipends and can assist students seeking academic credit; however, stipend eligibility requirements must be met. FDD provides both hybrid and remote internship options.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. It is recommended that interested candidates submit applications early. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

China Research

The China Research Program is seeking a part or full‑time intern. The role will provide an opportunity to work closely with FDD Senior Fellow Craig Singleton as well as other members of the research team analyzing Chinese primary sources and perspectives on the Chinese Communist Party’s approach to military, economic, and diplomatic competition. Research tasks will cover primary source data collection, literature reviews, and analysis of China’s competitive orientation toward the United States and US allies and partners globally. Those with an interest in China, East Asia, and the intersection of national security and economic affairs are strongly encouraged to apply. The China Research Program is looking for interns with empirical research experience, strong writing capabilities and/or data analysis expertise. The ability to conduct research in Mandarin is a plus but not required.

Eligibility

• Must have at least a 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
• Should have a relevant course of study and have completed coursework in any of the following fields: International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science, Computer Science, and/or a relevant STEM field of study.
• Interns should have knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, as well as basic Excel skills.
• Must be able to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Application Materials Required

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover letter (Please review our website and include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you and why. Also indicate where you found this internship and your availability for the semester.)
3. Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)
4. Unofficial transcript copy

Please specify the department(s) for which you would like to be considered (feel free to indicate preferences) in your cover letter. While you may use the same cover letter for multiple positions, please submit a separate application for each position of interest. Incomplete applications will not be considered.