China Research Fall 2026 Internship

Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD); Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 13,392 - 20,088; Part time

Job summary

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) in Washington, DC is offering internship opportunities within its China Research Program. Interns will analyze primary sources, conduct literature reviews, and assist senior researchers.

A strong writing ability, empirical research experience, and basic data analysis are valued. Hybrid and remote options are available, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

Qualifications

• Must have at least a 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Relevant coursework in IR, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, Economics, Political Science, CS or related STEM field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Word, and basic Excel skills.
• Commitment to a minimum of 22 hours per week.
• Eligibility to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Analyze primary sources and perspectives on national security topics.
• Conduct literature reviews and data analysis for China program research.
• Collaborate with senior staff and scholars; assist with writing and reporting.

Skills

Empirical research experience

Strong writing capabilities

Data analysis expertise

Education

GPA 3.2 on 4.0 scale

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel (basic)

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

FDD 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 Program

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 and 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 include primary source data collection, literature reviews, and analysis of China's competitive orientation toward the United States and U.S. 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 program seeks 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.
• Relevant coursework in fields such as International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science, Computer Science, or a related STEM field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Word, and basic Excel skills.
• Commitment to a minimum of 22 hours per week.
• Eligibility to work in the United States.

Application Materials Required

• Resume/CV
• 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.)
• Writing sample (no more than 3 pages)
• 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.