Research Intern

The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies, through its Global Competition Project (GCP), engages with a spectrum of experts to elevate insights as to the primary challenges and opportunities associated with societal level competition on the global stage. The goal of the Project is to develop foundational references for national security professionals, policymakers, industry leaders, and others while driving awareness in how the U.S. might address the most consequential aspects of the globally competitive environment. Since 2021, the GCP has delivered on that goal through its research, publications, panels, and continuous dialogue, all through the lens of the Institute’s mission intersecting science and technology, business, and government.

GCP Internship Description: As a member of the GCP team, you will have the opportunity to conduct impactful, timely research and participate in high-level events related to U.S. global competitiveness. You will learn valuable life-long skills to improve your research, writing, and critical thinking directly applicable to the professional world. The schedule is very flexible with the expectation that you will work 10-20 hours per week. The internship typically lasts the duration of an academic semester, but exceptions can be made depending on the circumstances. 

Intern Duties: Conducting research on a wide range of issues such as economic statecraft, international alliances, emerging science and technology as it relates to policy, legislation, and business, domestic and international government institutions and processes, and how they relate to national security and the intelligence community; Compiling bibliographies, chronologies, and summarizing research materials as directed; Contributing to GCP publications by assisting with copy editing and proofreading; As well as providing a full range of administrative support. (50% research based, 50% administrative support). 

Requirements: 3.25 or higher GPA with a background or interest in political science, international relations, international political economy, history, public policy, and law are preferred. Foreign language and international experience are desirable. Candidates should have relevant research, writing, and editing experience, excellent organization and communication skills, strong MS Office skills, and the ability to prioritize a heavy workload.  

Application: 
To apply for the internship position, please send a complete application package via email to gcp@potomacinstitute.org with the subject line “GCP Internship Application” or apply via Handshake. A complete package should include: 
1. A cover letter 
2. Current resume 
3. Two (2) letters of recommendation  
4. Unofficial transcript 
5. Short writing sample (1-3 Pages) 

Apply for the Spring Semester (January to May) by November 20th.
Apply for the Summer Semester (May to September) by March 20th.
Apply for the Fall Semester (September to December) by July 20th.

(Extensions Available Upon Request)

https://www.potomacinstitute.org/index.php/centers/internships 

Academic Credit: 

We are more than happy to assist students with receiving academic credit through their respected Institution upon successful completion of the internship. Some educational institutions require prior approval before the start of an internship for academic credit. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position. 

 This position complies with the Fair Labor Standard Act.