IISS-Americas External Relations Internship

International Institute for Strategic Studies; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 20,457 - 29,136; Part time

Job summary

The International Institute for Strategic Studies – Americas is offering a paid extern/ internship in External Relations in Washington, DC. Interns will support daily administrative and operational tasks, assist with events, and help with outreach and research to advance IISS goals.

Eligible candidates are rising juniors in Security Studies or International Relations (recent graduates considered), proactive, able to work independently, and proficient in Microsoft Office; US work eligibility is

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Be a rising junior in good standing studying Security Studies, International Relations, or a related field (recent graduates considered).
• Be able to work in a small team and independently.

Responsibilities

• Performing daily administrative and operational tasks.
• Regularly updating constituent databases to establish and strengthen external engagement.
• Supporting IISS-Americas events, including pre and post event logistics and on‑the‑floor assistance.
• Assisting with outreach and external relations, regarding IISS membership, fundraising initiatives, and government relations.
• Carrying out ad‑hoc research and data collection.

Skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Pursuing Security Studies / International Relations or related field

Job description

IISS-Americas External Relations Internship

Location: Washington, DC

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 two student interns to work up to 20 hours per week to support the activities of its Washington office for Fall 2026. The exact start and end dates are flexible with a preference for those available from late August through mid‑December.

Successful applicants can expect to gain direct exposure to the work and management of a leading international think tank. We are looking for interns with an interest in international relations, security studies, non‑profit management, external relations, and business development.

Responsibilities:

• Performing daily administrative and operational tasks;
• Regularly updating constituent databases to establish and strengthen external engagement;
• Supporting IISS‑America events, including pre and post event logistics and on‑the‑floor assistance;
• Assisting with outreach and external relations, regarding IISS membership, fundraising initiatives, and government relations;
• Carrying out ad‑hoc research and data collection.

Requirements:

Successful candidates will have the following qualifications:

• Be at least a rising junior in good standing studying Security Studies, International Relations, or a related field. Recent college graduates will be considered;
• Be proactive and a self‑starter able to work in a small team environment;
• Be able to work independently;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite;
• Be eligible to work in the US. IISS‑America regrets that it cannot assist with procuring visas or entry permits. Please include your work eligibility in your application.

Eligibility and Compensation:

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

Application:

Candidates should press the blue 'apply now' button and follow the steps to submit two documents:

• A CV.
• A cover letter, stating their suitability for the role.

The deadline for the application is Monday, 13 th July 2026 at 7:00PM EST.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the US. Unfortunately, we will be unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Due to the volume of expected applications, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

The IISS is an equal‑opportunities employer.