Spring 2027 Trainee Position, Indo-Pacific Program

The-German-Marshall-Fund-of-the-United-State; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

The German Marshall Fund of the United States seeks a part-time intern to support the Indo-Pacific Program, strengthening US-European partnerships and policy analysis on Asia-Pacific issues. The role emphasizes research, writing, and coordination for activities spanning governance, security, and economic policy.

Responsibilities include assisting with administrative tasks, supporting the China Global podcast, and helping organize events while maintaining contact databases.

Qualifications

• Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills.
• Fluency in Mandarin Chinese and English; additional languages a plus.
• Strong written and oral communications; superior judgment and discretion.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Background in International Relations, International Development, Regional Studies, Political Science, Economics, or Security Studies; graduate degree preferred.
• Experience in think tanks, foundations, NGOs, government bodies, media, or similar organizations preferred.
• Interest/background in Northeast, Southeast, or Asia-Pacific policy and US-European issues.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and research support for the Indo-Pacific Program on policy issues and related policies.
• Provide research support for the China Global podcast.
• Assist with Indo-Pacific Program communications and event coordination.
• Help maintain the Indo-Pacific Program's database of contacts.

Skills

Analytical skills

Research skills

Writing skills

Multi-tasking

Teamwork

Education

International Relations / Political Science degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Job Summary

GMF's Indo-Pacific Program fosters coordinated US-European approaches to common challenges in the Indo-Pacific region while building closer US-European-Asian partnerships. Through its research and its signature trilateral Track 1.5 dialogues with stakeholders from China, India, Japan, and Taiwan, the Indo-Pacific Program promotes cross-fertilization of ideas and potential policy solutions in key foreign, economic, and security policy areas, including connectivity, emerging technologies, supply chain resiliency, maritime security, and regional institutions. As the United States continues coalition-building in the region and Europe is developing its own Indo-Pacific strategies, GMF Indo-Pacific's insights and networks have never been more vital and relevant. The Indo-Pacific Program's fellows and staff manage an active set of policy programs, conduct in-depth research, publish regular newsletters and podcasts, and frequently contribute articles and commentary to a wide range of international publications and news outlets.

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Provide administrative and research support for the Indo-Pacific Program on issues pertaining to US and European policy toward the Indo-Pacific region, as well as related policies of Indo-Pacific countries
• Provide research support for the China Global podcast
• Assist with Indo-Pacific Program communications and with the coordination of our convening activities and events
• Help maintain the Indo-Pacific Program's database of contacts

Qualifications and Requirements

• Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills and experience
• Fluency and/or professional proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and English; additional European or Asian languages a plus
• Outstanding written and oral communications skills
• Superior judgment and discretion
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to multi-task and work both independently and as part of a team
• Strong academic record, including completed or in-process studies or degree(s) in International Relations, International Development, Regional Studies, Political Science, Economics, or Security Studies; graduate degree preferred
• Previous experience in a think tank, foundation, NGO, government body, media outlet, or similar organization preferred
• A demonstrable interest or background in contemporary Northeast, South, or Southeast Asian politics and policy – particularly related to China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, or India – or familiarity with US-European policy issues and global strategic debates about American foreign policy and rising international powers

Position Dates, Compensation, and Eligibility

• Preferred start date: January 11, 2027
• Preferred end date: May 28, 2027
• Preferred time commitment: Part time, 20 hours per week during business hours of Monday-Friday between 9 AM and 5 PM ET
• Compensation: Trainees are paid the DC minimum wage applicable at the time of employment
• Work permit: Trainees must have the applicable work permit for the internship location
• Residency: Trainees must maintain a local address in Washington, DC, Maryland, or Virginia

GMF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.